Kedah DVS tests 18 dogs for rabies following attack in Changlun

Kedah's Department of Veterinary Services (DVS) collected samples from 18 dogs in and around Changlun following a rabies scare. The incident occurred on September 24 when a 31-year-old man was bitten by a stray dog, reported by the Kedah State Health Department. DVS, working with Kubang Pasu Municipal Council, captured stray dogs in the area to test for the rabies virus. As of September 28, samples were collected from 18 dogs for confirmatory testing, with Kedah DVS continuing its investigation pending laboratory results.

Changlun falls within the rabies buffer zone, 50 kilometers from the Thai border, where all owned dogs must be vaccinated under the Animals Act 1953. In August, 504 owned dogs in Kubang Pasu and 1,349 across Kedah received the rabies vaccine. Kedah DVS is monitoring rabies across all districts; 164 samples were tested in August, all negative. Rabies affects the nervous system, causing behavioral changes like aggression or docility, restlessness, and paralysis, ultimately leading to death.

DVS warns the public against approaching, touching, or handling stray or sick dogs and advises immediate medical treatment if bitten or scratched by a potentially rabid animal. Report any incidents to the nearest Veterinary Services Office to enable investigation and follow-up actions. The DVS will collaborate with local authorities and agencies to monitor, investigate, and implement control measures to protect animal and public health.

The Field Operations Centre in Kubang Pasu District Veterinary Services Office can be reached at 04-916 2207, or the State Operations Centre at 04-702 5336. Outside Kedah, reports can be submitted to the nearest Veterinary Services Office or the DVS hotline at 03-8870 2041.