Rabies outbreak in Northeast strikes 74

A rabies outbreak has been detected in some northeastern provinces with 74 people reportedly contracting the disease so far, Dr Taweechai Wisanuyothin, chief of the Disease Prevention and Control Office 9, said on Thursday.

Citing data from Thairabies.net from October to the start of this week, he said 67 people had tested positive in Surin and seven in Buri Ram.

All had previously been vaccinated against rabies.

Rabies affects mammals with the main disease carriers found to be dogs, cats and cows. Initial symptoms include fever, pain and unusual or unexplained tingling, pricking, or a burning sensation at the wound site, as well as hallucinations and paralysis.

Dr Taweechai urged people and their pets to get vaccinated against the disease and avoid having direct contact with…