The Department of Livestock Development has declared parts of Bangkok and Samut Prakan as temporary epidemic zones after a rabies outbreak, with authorities enforcing strict animal movement controls for 30 days.
The order bans the transport of dogs, cats and other mammals into or out of the designated areas without permission from a veterinarian.
The decision came after rabies cases were detected in Nong Bon subdistrict of Prawet district, Bangkok.
The outbreak has been classified as a serious threat, with the potential to spread not only to humans but also to animals including dogs, cats, cattle and buffalo. The restrictions are in place from September 9 to October 8.
Epidemic Zone Boundaries
Officials said the epidemic zone covers Nong Bon in Prawet district. The boundaries are set as follows:
– North: Thap Chang, Saphan Sung district, Bangkok
– South: Bang Kaeo, Bang Phli district, Samut Prakan
– East: Racha Thewa, Bang Phli district, Samut Prakan
– West: Bang Chak, Phra Khanong district, Bangkok
Measures to Contain the Spread
Authorities have imposed a series of measures to contain the outbreak. Movement of dogs, cats or their carcasses is strictly prohibited without written permission from an authorised veterinarian.
Animal owners must report any sick animals to officials within 12 hours. In addition, carcasses of animals that die within the zone must remain where they are until reported to veterinary officers.
Failure to comply with these orders carries serious penalties. Violators face up to two years in prison, a fine of up to 40,000 baht, or both. Officials emphasised that full cooperation from residents and animal owners is essential to prevent the disease from spreading further.
High-Risk Areas Under Watch
The Bangkok Veterinary Public Health Office has placed several communities on high alert after rabid animals were discovered on Chalerm Phrakiat Rama 9 Soi 49 in Nong Bon. Residents living within a five-kilometre radius have been advised to exercise extreme caution.
The high-risk zones include Nong Bon, Dok Mai and Prawet in Prawet district; On Nut and Phatthanakan in Suan Luang district; Thap Chang in Saphan Sung district; Lat Krabang in Lat Krabang district; Bang Na Nuea in Bang Na district; and Bang Chak in Phra Khanong district.
In Samut Prakan, the areas include Bang Kaeo and Racha Thewa in Bang Phli district.
Authorities are urging people to avoid contact with stray animals, particularly dogs and cats, in all affected areas. Anyone bitten or scratched should immediately wash the wound with soap and water and seek rabies vaccination at a hospital without delay.
Residents are also asked to report any animals suspected of having rabies. Signs include abnormal behaviour such as agitation, unprovoked aggression, stiffness, drooling, or a hanging tongue.
Reports can be made to the Bangkok Dog Control Centre in Prawet district at 02-328-7460 or 02-328-7355.
