Six cases of human rabies in Bangkok since January 1

Six cases of human-infected rabies have been reported in Bangkok since the beginning of this year, but there is no fatality, according to the Ministry of Public Health and the Livestock Department.

Of the six cases, two were reported in Bang Khen district, two in Bang Sue district and one each in Chatuchak and Don Muang districts.

The Livestock Department earlier declared 13 provinces “red zone” for rabies after three deaths from rabies.

In Bangkok, Mrs Benjawan Sitchanasai, head of the veterinary health office of the City Hall, said that rabies epidemic remains stable, with most of the animals being infected being stray dogs and semi-stray dogs.

She said that many owners of pet dogs didn’t understand that vaccinated dogs were not immune to rabies and they need to be inoculated to prevent infection.

Pointing out that officials concerned have been vigilant in looking for rabid dogs, Mrs Benjawan assured that Bangkok is not at risk of threat from rabies and that Bangkokians would be updated about rabies situation on regular basis.

The situation of rabies in Bangkok since 2013 is as follows: 31 rabid dogs in 2013; 47 rabid dogs in 2014; 22 rabid dogs in 2015; 30 rabid dogs in 2016 and 47 rabid dogs in 2017.