Russian Rabies Threat To Be Beaten From The Air
FINLAND – State authorities have begun the aerial distribution of rabies vaccines across a 10,000 kilometre square area of land to combat the spread of the virus from Russia.
27 September 2013
1 minute read
The dropping of a total of 180,000 vaccinated ‘baits’ commenced yesterday over an area of south eastern Finland, stretching from Ilomantsi in the north to Virolahti in the south.
The area stretches 40 kilometres in land from the Russian border and is to act as a buffer zone in which veterinarians plan to neutralise the threat of rabies passing into wild animals.
Public warnings have advised the greatest threat is posed by Foxes and Raccoons, according to the Finnish Foot Safety Authority (EVIRA).
Evira has issued a public warning stating that the vaccines should be left alone and on no account ingested.
The vaccine is a liquid contained in a foil capsule. If anyone gets the liquid in their mouth, nose or eyes, Evira has advised that the affected area be thoroughly washed.
Rigorous cleaning with soap, water and 70 per cent alcohol is prescribed by Evira should a member of the public come in contact with the 'attenuated' rabies vaccine.
The individual should then contact a health care centre.
Finnish authorities have said they will show vigilance against rabies, and keep the country safe from the disease which has not been recorded in the country since 1991.
TheCattleSite News Desk
