Mass anti-rabies vax in Ri-Bhoi attracts many

NONGPOH, April 30: Residents of Jorbil Killing area in Ri-Bhoi turned out in large numbers on Wednesday to vaccinate their pet dogs and cats as part of a Mass Anti-Rabies Vaccination Drive.
The programme was organised by the Veterinary department of Byrnihat at Killing village following the recent death of a woman in the area due to rabies.
Speaking to media persons, the department in-charge in Byrnihat, Dr Aiban Phankon, expressed satisfaction over the active participation of the public in getting their pets vaccinated to prevent the spread of the deadly disease.
Phankon pointed out that rabies remains a serious health threat, transmitted through bites by infected animals such as dogs and cats. Once symptoms appear, the disease is incurable. He explained that for individuals who are bitten, the only preventive measure is the Post-Exposure Prophylaxis (PEP) vaccine, which must be administered before the onset of symptoms.
He further added that the Veterinary department will continue the anti-rabies vaccination drive in the future to cover more areas and ensure wider protection for both animals and humans in the district.