A massive rabies outbreak has struck Manipur, with multiple cases reported from Churachandpur district, prompting authorities to declare containment zones and impose strict restrictions.

The outbreak began surfacing last week, with New Zouveng village being identified as the epicentre. The village has since been declared a containment zone following the confirmation of several rabies cases.

Official sources reveal that since January, at least 749 people have been bitten by dogs, with three deaths attributed to rabies. Multiple confirmed and suspected cases have emerged from New Zouveng, posing a serious health risk to both humans and animals.

District Magistrate Dharun Kumar has prohibited the movement of domesticated pets, particularly dogs, in and out of New Zouveng. He has also ordered the identification and vaccination of all pets and stray dogs in the area.

“Surveillance, door-to-door monitoring, and health check-ups will be carried out during the containment period,” Kumar stated. The sale and transport of domestic dogs have also been strictly banned. Violators of the containment order will face penal action.

To address the crisis, the Veterinary Department has formed Quick Response Teams, which have already surveyed around 30 households in the village. All owned dogs were vaccinated during the drive, and households were issued vaccination certificates.

District Veterinary Officer Dr Veithienneng has flagged an insufficient vaccine supply as the biggest challenge in containing the outbreak.