Rabies Outbreak Spreads In Bangkok, Thais Are Urged To Increase Vigilance

Illustration of dogs who want to kill humans (Photo: Freepik/Freepik)

JAKARTA - The Thai Livestock Department designated several areas in Bangkok and Samut Prakan as temporary rabies outbreak zones. This decision was taken after rabies cases were found in Nong Bon Village, Prawet District, Bangkok.

Reporting from The Straits Times page as an emergency measure, the government imposed a 30-day ban on the movement of dogs, cats and other breastfeeding animals, from September 9 to October 8, 2025.

Rabies is considered a serious threat because it can be transmitted to humans and other animals such as dogs, cats, cows, and buffalo. Areas that fall into the epidemic zone include Nong Bon, which borders Thap Chang, Bang Kaeo, Racha Thewa, and Bang Chak.

The government enforces strict rules. Pets and carcasses are prohibited from entering or entering the area without written permission from the competent veterinarian.

Animal owners are required to report sick animals within 12 hours. For dead animals, the carcasses cannot be moved before being reported to officers. Violations of this rule can be subject to imprisonment of up to two years, a maximum fine of 40 thousand baht (Rp. 20 million) or both.

The rabies Control Unit from the Bangkok Animal Health Office also found rabies animals at Chalerm Phrakiat Rama 9 Soi, Nong Bon. Residents around the location with a radius of five kilometers are asked to be extra careful.

Apart from Nong Bon, other high-risk areas include Doc Mai and Prawet, On Nut and Phathaakan in Suan Luang, Thap Chang, Lat Krabang, Bang Na Nuea, and Bang Chak districts. In Samut Prakan, the areas of Bang Kaeo and Racha Thewa are also categorized as vulnerable zones.

The public is advised not to touch wild animals or stray dogs and cats. If you are stabbed or leave your wound, the wound must be washed with soap and running water, then immediately get a rabies vaccine in the hospital.

The characteristics of animals infected with rabies include aggressiveness, bite for no reason, stiffness, a lot of saliva, or tongue sticking out. Residents who find animals with these symptoms are asked to immediately report to the authorities.