The number of cases of rabies recorded in 2018 was by 54% higher compared with 2017. According to the National Public Health Agency, the number of animals diagnosed with rabies rose from 49 to 91, while of affected administrative territories from 25 to 29. In 2018, there were reported no cases of human rabies, IPN reports.
Rabies was identified in 21 wild animals and 70 domestic animals. In the conditions in Moldova, the virus is maintained by the population of foxes, especially because no permanent measures are being taken to diminish them.
According to statistics, up to 5,000 persons attacked by different categories of animals are logged by medical institution each year. A large part of them are subject to preventive anti-rabies treatment to save their lives.
If a person is attacked by an animal, this should swiftly wash the wound with soap under running water, treat it with iodine and seek medial assistance. The anti-rabies assistance, including curative-prophylactic vaccination, is provided free to each person who needs it.
According to the National Public Health Agency, to reduce the number of rabies among animals the Ministry of Agriculture, Regional Development and Environment and the Hunters and Fishermen’s Association should encourage the unlimited hunting of foxes. Also, the National Food Safety Agency should ensure the immunization of pets against rabies, while the local public authorities should take measures to vaccinate the animals without owners.
Rabies is a viral disease that causes inflammation of the brain in humans and other mammals. Early symptoms can include fever and tingling at the site of exposure. These symptoms are followed by one or more of the following symptoms: violent movements, uncontrolled excitement, fear of water, an inability to move parts of the body, confusion, and loss of consciousness. The infected person should be immediately vaccinated.
