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Rabies Scare: Buffalo Milk Panic Grips Gujarat Village
7 Mar
Summary
- 32 villagers sought anti-rabies vaccines fearing infection from milk.
- A buffalo died from suspected rabies, causing widespread panic.
- Consuming milk from a rabid animal does not transmit the rabies virus.
In Gujarat's Sabarkantha district, Laloda village experienced an unusual health emergency. Thirty-two residents sought anti-rabies vaccines at the Idar Sub-District Hospital following the death of a local buffalo.
The villagers' concern stemmed from consuming milk provided by the buffalo in the days leading up to its death on March 5, which was attributed to suspected bovine rabies. This incident triggered a significant panic, emphasizing a widespread lack of awareness regarding rabies transmission in cattle.
Health officials reassured the public that rabies cannot be transmitted through the consumption of milk from an infected animal. The buffalo exhibited symptoms like drooling and refusal to eat or drink for approximately a week before passing away. While the owner denied any dog bites, experts suggest the animal may have been infected months prior.
As a precautionary measure, anti-rabies vaccinations were also administered to other animals in the vicinity. The situation underscores the importance of accurate information dissemination regarding animal-borne diseases and their modes of transmission.
