A man in Dong Nai was licked in the open wound by a dog at home, so he did not get a rabies vaccination. About a month later, he developed symptoms of hydrophobia, photophobia, and died.

According to an epidemiological investigation, Mr. N.K.H. (54 years old, residing in Thach Man hamlet, Tan Loi commune) was licked in the open wound by a dog suspected of having rabies. However, he did not get a rabies vaccination or use anti-rabies serum.

On June 16, the dog suddenly became aggressive, biting two other dogs to death, so Mr. H. beat him to death. On July 10, he developed symptoms such as hydrophobia, fear of noise, fear of light, loss of appetite, etc. and was taken to the hospital for examination and diagnosis of rabies.

Despite being closely monitored, Mr. H. died at home 7 days later. Test results from the Ho Chi Minh City Hospital for Tropical Diseases confirmed that the patient was positive for rabies virus.

According to the report, in the area near Mr. H’s house, there are 20 households raising a total of 40 dogs and cats, none of which have been vaccinated against rabies. These pets are mostly allowed to roam freely without muzzles, increasing the risk of spreading the disease in the community.

Mr. N.D.H’s family raises a dog weighing about 20kg, which has not been vaccinated against rabies. On July 25, the animal showed signs of drooling, aggression, and suddenly bit 4 neighbors. The test sample was positive for rabies virus.

Given the complicated developments, the authorities have requested that localities strengthen close monitoring of the rabies epidemic situation, especially in high-risk areas. The authorities also require people raising dogs and cats to commit to keeping them in captivity, fully vaccinating them, and muzzling them.

In addition, localities will establish specialized teams to capture stray dogs and apply administrative penalties according to regulations to pet owners who violate the regulations.