Penang on rabies alert

GEORGE TOWN: Penang has been declared a rabies-infected area after two cases were reported in the state, in north Seberang Prai and Balik Pulau.

Chief Minister Lim Guan Eng (pic) said the Veterinary Department has been authorised to capture and dispose of stray dogs to curb the spread of the disease in the state.

Lim said the order, cited under Rabies-Infected Area (Penang) Order 2015, came into operation on Sept 15.

“Pet dog are also not allowed out of state except with a written permit issued by the state director of Veterinary Services.

“Dog owners should also ensure that their pet are confined within an enclosed space to prevent being infected, as rabies primarily spreads through bites and also mucus,” he said in a press conference in Komtar Thursday.

Penang health committee chairman Dr Afif Bahardin said the disease was believed to have been transmitted to Penang from Perlis.

He added that cases in the state involved a 44-year old man in Pokok Sena, Seberang Perai on Sept 8 and an 11-year-old boy at Taman Nelayan, Kuala Sungai Pinang. On Monday.