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UP rabies scare: can curd or other dairy products actually spread rabies?

UP rabies scare: can curd or other dairy products actually spread rabies?

Around 450 people received anti-rabies vaccinations in Uttar Pradesh’s Gorakhpur district after consuming charanamrit made from milk of a cow suspected of having rabies. Health officials organised vaccination camps in Dadi Khas and neighbouring Govindpur villages after the animal showed unusual behaviour and died on October 20. India’s National Rabies Control Programme stated that there are no evidence-based reports of human rabies resulting from consuming milk or milk products from an infected animal. While rabies primarily spreads through bites, scratches, or infected saliva contacting broken skin or mucous membranes, health authorities advise against consuming raw milk from suspected animals due to other foodborne infection risks. Anyone who experiences a bite, scratch, or possible contact with infected saliva should consult a doctor promptly for proper evaluation and preventive treatment.

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