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Rabies Suspected in Lioness Death After Attacks
6 Oct
Summary
- A lioness died from suspected rabies after attacking five people.
- The injured individuals received anti-rabies vaccines as a precaution.
- Brain tissue samples were sent for confirmation of the rabies infection.
A lioness in Gujarat's Amreli district has succumbed to suspected rabies, following a series of attacks on five individuals. The animal was rescued on October 2nd after injuring four villagers and a forest department officer in Arjunsukh village. It was subsequently transferred to the Krankach Animal Care Centre.
Within approximately 20 hours of rescue, the lioness died on October 3rd. Prior to its death, the animal exhibited abnormal behavior, including vocalizations and biting. Forest officials have sent brain tissue samples to Anand Agriculture University for definitive testing to confirm the cause of death.
All five individuals attacked by the lioness have received the anti-rabies vaccine as a preventive measure. Officials have assured the public that there is no immediate cause for concern, as the lioness was solitary and no other lions have displayed similar symptoms. Investigations into the surrounding areas where the lioness was found are ongoing.
Experts explained that rabies can be transmitted to lions through consuming infected animals, drinking contaminated water, or scavenging on carcasses left by infected animals. The risk is higher in areas with stray dogs and cattle that share habitats with lions.
