Daijiworld Media Network – Srinagar

Srinagar, May 15: Health authorities in Jammu and Kashmir’s Pulwama district administered anti-rabies vaccines to more than 250 residents after meat from a bovine animal suspected to be infected with rabies was allegedly sold in a village, triggering panic among locals.

The incident was reported from Parigam village, where a butcher allegedly sold the suspected meat earlier this week. Following rumours that the animal may have been rabid, residents rushed to nearby health centres seeking medical advice and precautionary vaccination.

Officials immediately launched an awareness and vaccination drive in the area. Mosque announcements and ambulances were also used to spread public awareness and urge residents not to panic.

Medical Officer at PHC Parigam, Dr Jureeda, said the vaccination campaign was started as a preventive measure even though the infection had not been officially confirmed.

“We heard that contaminated meat was sold by a butcher. As a precautionary measure, we immediately began administering anti-rabies vaccines,” she said.

The doctor clarified that properly cooked meat generally reduces the risk of infection, but precautions were being taken due to the possibility of contact with infected fluids while handling raw meat.

She advised residents to seek medical attention if they develop symptoms such as fever, vomiting, loose motion, or unusual behavioural changes.

Many villagers who had purchased meat from the butcher reportedly opted for vaccination despite the uncertainty surrounding the case.

Chief Medical Officer of Pulwama, Dr Tehmeena Jameel, confirmed that over 250 people had received anti-rabies vaccines so far.

She said the matter remains unconfirmed as the animal’s head, which is usually required for laboratory testing, had already been destroyed before samples could be collected.

Officials from the Animal Husbandry Department reportedly disposed of the remaining meat after the issue came to light.

Meanwhile, police have registered an FIR and arrested the butcher for further investigation.

SHO Pulwama Zahoor Ahmad said authorities are questioning the individuals from whom the animal was purchased and are also consulting veterinarians who treated the bovine before slaughter.

District authorities are expected to hold a high-level review meeting involving all concerned departments to assess the situation and decide further action.