CHENNAI: A stray dog bit 26 people, including two children, at Vallam village in Chengalpattu on Wednesday, creating rabies scare in the area. The victims were later treated at the Government Chengalpattu Medical College Hospital.
According to sources, the stray dog started attacking people in Raatinakenaru in Vallam Village since the morning. Roaming furiously on the streets, it suddenly went on a biting spree. Immediately the victims were rushed to the hospital.
Speaking to Express, Dr Palani, deputy director of Health Services, Chengalpattu, said the stray dog has bitten 26 people, including seven women. “However, officials are yet to confirm whether the dog was infected with rabies. The field medical officers will identity the dog tomorrow and follow up action will be taken,” he added.
Dr Gunasekaran, Dean of Government Chengalpattu Medical College Hospital, said all the victims were administered anti-rabies injection. “Among 26, eight people were admitted to the hospital. But, they were discharged after observation. Most of them suffered injuries in legs and hands,” he added.
Meanwhile, the villagers were said to have attacked municipal officials for their lethargic attitude towards containing the stray dogs menace.