The cow died on Tuesday evening in Dadi Khas village, Gola block, after exhibiting erratic behavior, including barking and abnormal movements. Navami Yadav, the animal’s owner, consulted veterinarians Bechan Singh and Hardev Yadav, who suspected a stray dog bite as the cause. The suspicion triggered an immediate health response after the animal’s milk had already been distributed during Durga Puja.
Around 50 devotees received the anti-rabies vaccine at the local Community Health Centre (CHC) on Tuesday. The number swelled to 450 after a larger vaccination camp was held on Wednesday, led by pharmacist Siddharth Singh. The milk had also reached two shops and several households in neighboring Govindpur, widening the potential exposure radius.
Veterinarian Siddiqui, posted in Dadi, clarified that rabies transmission via milk alone is not an established route. He emphasized that symptoms alone cannot confirm the disease and that laboratory testing is required for definitive diagnosis. However, he advised anyone who may have had contact with the animal’s saliva or infectious material to seek post-exposure prophylaxis immediately.
CHC in-charge Amarendra Thakur stated that the health department is maintaining vaccine availability at the center to ensure timely access for concerned residents. He urged the public to boil milk thoroughly before consumption and to avoid drinking it raw to prevent such biological hazards in the future.