Rabies Outbreak Declared in Bangkok, Animal Movement Banned for 30 Days
Authorities in Thailand have declared parts of Bangkok and nearby Samut Prakan as temporary rabies epidemic zones after confirmed cases of the deadly virus were detected in stray animals. The move comes with a strict 30-day ban on the movement of dogs, cats and other mammals from 9 September to 8 October 2025.
According to Thailand’s Department of Livestock Development, the urgent order was triggered after an infected stray dog was found in the Nong Bon area of Prawet district. The disease poses a serious public health risk as it can be transmitted to humans as well as domestic animals such as cats, cattle and buffalo.
Residents in six districts of Bangkok and one in Samut Prakan have been warned to remain vigilant. Officials have urged the public to avoid contact with stray animals and to seek immediate medical treatment if bitten or scratched.
Heavy Penalties for Ignoring Rabies Restrictions
The order makes it compulsory for pet owners to report any sick animals to the authorities within 12 hours. Dead animals must not be moved and are to be reported to veterinary officers for proper handling.
Only with the written approval of an authorised veterinarian can dogs, cats or carcasses be transported in or out of the epidemic zones. Violators face harsh consequences, including up to two years’ imprisonment, fines of up to 40,000 baht (around S$1,600), or both.
Officials highlighted the symptoms of rabies in animals, which include sudden aggression, excessive drooling, unprovoked biting, stiffness, or a hanging tongue. Members of the public are encouraged to immediately report sightings of such animals to local authorities.
High-Risk Areas Named
The epidemic zone covers Nong Bon in Prawet district and its surrounding communities within a 5km radius. High-risk areas include:
- Nong Bon, Dok Mai and Prawet (Prawet district)
- On Nut and Phatthanakan (Suan Luang district)
- Thap Chang (Saphan Sung district)
- Lat Krabang (Lat Krabang district)
- Bang Na Nuea (Bang Na district)
- Bang Chak (Phra Khanong district)
- Bang Kaeo and Racha Thewa (Bang Phli district, Samut Prakan)
Health authorities in Bangkok have described the outbreak as a serious situation requiring immediate community cooperation. Rabies, once symptoms appear, is almost always fatal in humans. Early vaccination after exposure remains the only effective treatment.
For now, residents are being reminded that strict compliance with animal movement restrictions is necessary to contain the spread and protect both people and pets.