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The Agriculture, Fisheries and Conservation Department (AFCD) today (September 28) reminded the public to stay vigilant against rabies in support of World Rabies Day 2010, which aims to raise awareness and understanding of the importance of rabies prevention.
"Hong Kong has a good track record of rabies control and has been rabies-free for over 20 years. Maintenance of our rabies-free status hinges upon the effective rabies regulatory regime and co-operation from the public," an AFCD spokesman said.
Rabies is a fatal disease and can be transmitted from infected dogs to humans through dog bites. It is reckoned that over 55,000 people, mostly in Africa and Asia, die of rabies every year.
"Although the last animal rabies case was reported in 1987, we should stay vigilant and take the necessary precautionary measures to prevent the disease," the spokesman said.
A comprehensive anti-rabies programme has been implemented by the department with vaccination as the key measure. Under the Rabies Ordinance, all dogs aged over five months must be vaccinated against rabies, licensed and microchipped. Offenders are liable to a maximum penalty of $10,000.
Currently, about 160,000 dogs with valid licences are vaccinated. To ensure an adequate level of protection against rabies, dogs must be re-vaccinated every three years when the dog licence is renewed.
Vaccination is available from private veterinary surgeons or the AFCD's animal management centres.
"As a precautionary measure, people who are bitten by dogs should immediately seek medical attention and report the case to the police, who will forward the information to the AFCD for investigation. People should also observe good hygiene and avoid feeding stray dogs," the spokesman said.
In addition, the AFCD is holding an animal health workshop today and tomorrow where participants can exchange information on and share experiences in zoonotic diseases and urban animal control. Topics include emerging zoonoses, management of dog problems, as well as prevention and control of rabies.
The two-day workshop will be attended by public health and veterinary experts from the World Health Organisation, the World Organisation for Animal Health, the United States, New Zealand, the Mainland and Hong Kong.
Ends/Tuesday, September 28, 2010
Issued at HKT 17:17
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