Rabies in south
The rabies cases continue to rise in southern Bhutan. Bhutanese media reported similar incidents a few times in the last half a year only.
In a latest incident, a seven-year-old boy in Jigmedling area (previously Chuwabari) in, Gelephu (previously Gaylegphug) died from rabies recently. He was a grade one student at Jigmedling Lower Secondary School.
The local authorities repeatedly expressed commitments to raise awareness on rabies and need for vaccinations of the dogs. However, no programmes have been launched for that. Due to lack of knowledge on rabies, people rush hospital for treatment at last hour.
According to reports, the boy had already developed hydrophobia by the time he was admitted to hospital. After the incident, over two dozen people have been admitted to hospital for anti rabies vaccination.