Rabies controlled area

The state of Goa was declared a RABIES CONTROLLED AREA through the notification issued by the Directorate of Animal Husbandry and Veterinary Services (AH&VS)

Government Notification Number 14-9-AH/Rabies Control/2021-22/679 dated 17/05/2021.

The state declared the above as per The Prevention and Control of Infectious and Contagious Diseases in Animals Act 2009.

What does this mean to general public?

1. It is mandatory to vaccinate all dogs against rabies annually.

2. All dogs entering Goa must be registered and must have been vaccinated within the past one year or on arrival.

3. The public are encouraged to report all animals with possible rabies to a 24/7 rabies hotline (7744029586), which provides guidance and initiates an investigation from trained rabies surveillance officers.

What does this mean to veterinarians and public administration services?

1. All veterinarians and public service officials must report any rabies suspected animal to the rabies hotline or the Department of AH&VS.

2. Any veterinarian or public service official can check the vaccination status of any pet anywhere in Goa.

What does this mean to the State Government?

1. The department shall make rabies vaccination easily available.

2. The department shall conduct thorough investigation and testing of all rabies suspected animals.

3. The department will continue to control the disease.

4. The department can monitor and restrict entry of unvaccinated animals.

5. The department designates a veterinary officer in charge of control of rabies for the state.

6. The department shall make provision for safe disposal of rabies infectious material including suspected carcasses.

The Government of Goa should be proud to be the first state in India to make such a declaration for rabies control.