September 09: Livestock officials said the rabies outbreak in Kanglung, Trashigang has not subsided despite regular sterilization and mass vaccination campaigns.

They were speaking at a function marking the world rabies day which was observed in the kingdom for the first time.

Kanglung is one of the areas frequently hit by rabies outbreak. A rabies outbreak was first reported in Pam in 2005. Since then it has claimed one human life and over 100 cattle.

Livestock officials say despite numerous efforts to combat it, rabies outbreak still remains a threat in Kanglung.

The District Livestock Officer, Dr. Tshering Dorji cited lack of public cooperation during mass anti-rabies campaign as one of the major reasons.

Earlier this week, a calf died of suspected rabies in Kanglung. As a precautionary measure around 80 people who had consumed diary products were given anti-rabies vaccination.

Livestock officials organized a rabies vaccination program at the Sherubtse College Campus as part of the day’s program. Several people from Yonphula, Rongthong and Pangthang also took part in the campaign.

About 300 dogs were vaccinated during the daylong campaign. Livestock officials told out reporter Tenzin Namgyel that there are about 9,000 dogs in Tashigang dzongkhag alone.

The livestock sector wants to construct dog pounds to prevent rabies outbreaks but officials expressed fear that they may not enough funding.