Bangkok, 29 November 2024 – Authorities have urged vigilance following a confirmed rabies outbreak near a garbage treatment facility in Soi Onnut 86, Prawet district. The Bangkok Metropolitan Administration (BMA) announced the detection of rabies among stray dogs in the area, prompting swift containment measures.
The BMA Health Department, in collaboration with the Department of Livestock Development, has initiated vaccination campaigns within a 5-kilometre radius of the outbreak. Over 728 residents, 104 pets, and numerous stray animals in Prawet, Saphan Sung, Suan Luang, and Bang Phli in neighbouring Samut Prakan have already received rabies vaccinations. Authorities have also captured and quarantined 51 stray dogs for observation.
Pet owners are being advised to keep animals indoors, ensure vaccinations are up to date, and monitor pets for symptoms such as aggression, excessive drooling, or difficulty swallowing. Free rabies vaccinations are available at Public Health Service Centres No. 22 and 57 on weekdays from 8 a.m. to noon. Residents can call 02-349-1816 or 02-396-1866 for more information.
The World Health Organisation (WHO) warns that rabies is nearly always fatal once symptoms emerge. Transmission occurs primarily through dog bites, which account for 99% of human rabies cases globally. Officials emphasize that vaccination and avoiding contact with stray animals are the most effective preventive measures.
In the event of a bite or suspected exposure, the BMA advises immediate washing of the wound with soap and water, followed by urgent medical consultation. Residents are also encouraged to report unusual animal behaviour to the Prawet Dog Control and Shelter Group at 02-328-7460 or 02-328-7355.
The BMA Health Department described prevention as the “only cure” and urged Bangkokians to stay away from the Soi Onnut 86 area until the situation stabilizes. The Nation reports that rabies continues to pose life-threatening risks worldwide, highlighting the importance of timely vaccination and community vigilance.
