In response to a rabies outbreak, the Department of Livestock Development has designated specific areas in Bangkok and Samut Prakan as temporary epidemic zones, enforcing a 30-day restriction on the movement of dogs, cats, and other mammals.
Initiated after rabies cases were identified in the Nong Bon subdistrict of Bangkok’s Prawet district, the measures will be active from September 9 to October 8, addressing the significant threat posed to humans and animals alike. The epidemic zone encompasses Nong Bon and adjacent areas such as Thap Chang, Bang Kaeo, Racha Thewa, and Bang Chak.
Authorities have enacted stringent protocols, including a ban on transporting animals in and out of the zone without veterinary authorization, mandatory reporting of sick animals within 12 hours, and requirements for managing carcasses on-site until official inspection. Compliance with veterinary directives is mandatory, with violations prompting severe penalties, including possible imprisonment and fines up to 40,000 baht (S$1,615).
The Bangkok Veterinary Public Health Office has issued alerts concerning rabid animal sightings in Chalerm Phrakiat Rama 9 Soi 49, urging residents within a five-kilometer radius to remain vigilant. Areas including Nong Bon, Dok Mai, Prawet, On Nut, Phatthanakan, Lat Krabang, Bang Na Nuea, and Bang Kaeo are flagging high-risk, with public advisories against interacting with stray animals. In case of bites or scratches, immediate wound cleaning and rabies vaccination at a hospital are strongly recommended.
