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The Agriculture, Fisheries and Conservation Department (AFCD), in support of World Rabies Day 2011, will hold an exhibition tomorrow (September 24) at Tai Po Mega Mall to raise public awareness and understanding of responsible pet ownership and the importance of rabies prevention.
The exhibition will include display panels on dog licensing and microchipping and vaccination against rabies. Pamphlets will also be distributed.
"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 estimated 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 210,000 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 four 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.
Ends/Friday, September 23, 2011
Issued at HKT 15:04
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