AnnaMaria
Dog Lick on Open Wound Leads to Fatal Rabies Case in Dong Nai
A 54-year-old man from Thach Man hamlet, Tan Loi commune died after contracting rabies when he was licked on an open wound by a dog suspected of carrying the virus. He did not receive a rabies vaccination or anti-rabies serum after the incident.
How the Incident Unfolded
According to the investigation, Mr. N.K.H. was injured when the suspected rabid dog licked his wound. On June 16, the dog suddenly became aggressive, attacking and killing two other dogs. Mr. H. then killed the animal.
On July 10, he developed hydrophobia (fear of water), photophobia (sensitivity to light), fear of noise, loss of appetite, and other classic rabies symptoms. He was taken to the hospital, where doctors diagnosed rabies. Despite close medical supervision, Mr. H. died at home seven days later. Tests from the Ho Chi Minh City Hospital for Tropical Diseases confirmed the presence of the rabies virus.
Widespread Lack of Pet Vaccination
Authorities reported that around Mr. H.’s home, 20 households own about 40 dogs and cats, none of which had been vaccinated against rabies. Most of these animals roam freely without muzzles, creating a high risk of community transmission.
Another case in the same area involved Mr. N.D.H.’s family dog, weighing about 20 kg, which was also unvaccinated. On July 25, the dog showed signs of drooling, aggression, and bit four neighbors. Tests confirmed it was infected with the rabies virus.
Urgent Public Health Measures
In response to the outbreak risk, local authorities have instructed communities to strengthen rabies monitoring, especially in high-risk areas. Dog and cat owners must:
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Keep pets confined
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Fully vaccinate them against rabies
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Use muzzles in public spaces
Specialized teams will be deployed to capture stray dogs, and pet owners who violate regulations will face administrative penalties under existing laws.
