KOLLAM: Panic gripped residents of Thrikkaruva in Kollam after a stray dog that bit and injured around 20 people in Anchalumoodu was confirmed to be rabies-affected.
The stray dog attack began last Sunday morning, with the animal reportedly running from the Vanmala area of Thrikkaruva to Chanthamukku, attacking people on the way. Most victims sustained bite injuries on their legs and faces, while several stray dogs in the locality were also attacked.
The injured persons were rushed to the district hospital for treatment and administered anti-rabies vaccination. Hospital sources said one person reportedly fell ill while receiving the injection and was later shifted for specialist care to Parippally Medical College Hospital.
The dog was later found dead in a garbage dump at Prakkulam. Its carcass was shifted to the District Veterinary Hospital for postmortem examination, which confirmed rabies infection.
The incident has sparked fear among residents, who alleged that the stray dog menace has become severe across wards in Thrikkaruva. Residents said stray dogs frequently enter house compounds, attack pets and birds, and pose a threat to children and elderly persons.
Residents have demanded urgent intervention from the local body and animal husbandry authorities to intensify stray dog control measures, including sterilisation and vaccination drives, to prevent further attacks.