Rabies Scare Triggers Panic In Pulwama

(MENAFN- Kashmir Observer) Srinagar- Panic and anxiety gripped Parigam village in south Kashmir's Pulwama district after meat from an ill bovine animal slaughtered by a local butcher was allegedly sold to dozens of residents, triggering fears of possible rabies exposure and prompting hundreds to rush for precautionary vaccination.

The incident sparked widespread concern after rumours surfaced that the animal had been bitten by a dog before being slaughtered. As the reports spread rapidly through the locality, worried residents thronged the Primary Health Centre (PHC) Parigam seeking anti-rabies vaccination after either consuming or handling the meat.

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Officials said an FIR has been registered and an investigation initiated into the incident.

A police officer said the animal was ill, but clarified that preliminary findings do not suggest it was a dog-bitten animal as widely rumoured.

“The animal was sick and investigation is underway. However, it was not a case of a dog-bitten animal as being circulated among people,” the officer said, urging residents not to panic unnecessarily.

Medical authorities at PHC Parigam said an emergency response was launched immediately after the matter came to light.

“We received information yesterday that suspected contaminated meat had been consumed by locals. Following this, we immediately started a vaccination drive as a precautionary measure. Hundreds of people have already been vaccinated,” Dr Jureeda, Medical Officer at PHC Parigam, said.

She said the chances of infection remain comparatively low because the meat had been cooked before consumption, though precautionary vaccination was still being administered to concerned individuals.

“People should not panic because cooking considerably reduces the risk. Still, those who consumed or handled the meat can take anti-rabies vaccination as a preventive measure,” she said.

The doctor advised residents to remain alert and seek immediate medical attention in case of symptoms such as vomiting, nausea, fever, unusual behavioural changes or any other health complications.

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“Anyone who consumed the meat and develops concerning symptoms should report to the nearest hospital without delay,” she added.

Residents said the rumours created fear across the village, especially among families who had either purchased the meat or handled it during cooking.

Many demanded stricter veterinary monitoring, mandatory inspection of animals before slaughter and greater public awareness regarding zoonotic diseases and food safety practices.

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Authorities said the situation is being closely monitored and all necessary preventive and medical measures are being taken while investigation into the incident continues. (KNO)

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