Paralytic Rabies in Horses and Cattle on the Rise

There’s growing concern in the agricultural sector tonight as cases of paralytic rabies are on the rise in Belize. The Belize Agricultural Health Authority, along with the Ministry of Agriculture, is sounding the alarm, urging farmers and the public to stay alert and take action. Paralytic rabies is a serious disease that affects both domestic and wild animals, and it can be passed on to humans. The warning comes after a spike in infections among horses and cattle, raising red flags across rural communities. So, what should you look out for? Infected animals may show unusual behavior, nervousness, aggression, excessive drooling, trouble eating or swallowing, and eventually, death. Authorities are urging everyone to handle sick animals with extreme caution, as the virus spreads through saliva. To protect your animals, and yourself, BAHA is advising that all pets and livestock be vaccinated by a licensed vet. They’re also reminding the public to keep animals confined to their property and avoid leaving food or garbage out, which could attract wild animals. If you suspect a case of rabies, don’t wait, report it immediately to BAHA’s Animal Health Department. Early action could save lives.