Massive Rabies Outbreak Affects Hundreds In Manipur, 3 Dead

Manipur faces a rabies outbreak, with Churachandpur reporting numerous cases.

Several suspected and multiple cases of rabies have been reported in Manipur. (Representational Image)

Source : PTI

A massive rabies outbreak has hit Manipur with multiple cases being reported from Churachandpur following which authorities have put restrictions in place and declared containment zones. 

The cases began surfacing last week and the authorities have declared New Zouveng village in the Churachandpur district as a containment zone, reported NDTV. 

Around 749 people have been bitten by dogs since January and 3 persons have died due to rabies, according to official sources. 

New Zoveng village has reported multiple confirmed and suspected cases of rabies, posing a serious threat to the health and safety of the people and animals, the report stated quoting sources. 

District Magistrate Dharun Kumar has strictly prohibited the movement of "domesticated pets/dogs in and out of the village". He also directed the identification and vaccination of all pets and stray dogs in the village. 

The DM further said that surveillance, door-to-door monitoring, and health check-ups will be conducted. Sale and transport of domestic dogs have been strictly banned during the containment period, he added. 

Anyone found violating the order will be liable for penal action, the order stated.

The Veterinary Department has constituted Quick Response Teams to carry out surveys at the New Zouveng village. The teams surveyed about 30 households during the drive. 

The survey teams have administered all dog vaccinations owned by the households and provided them with certificates.

District Veterinary Officer, Dr Veithienneng, has flagged insufficient supply of vaccine as the biggest challenge in tackling the outbreak.