Nearly 60 Hamsters Escaped a Pet Store in Moscow, Raising Concerns Over Potential Rabies Cases
Panic in Moscow as authorities launch manhunt for missing rodents
Authorities in the Russian capital Moscow are on high alert after nearly 60 hamsters escaped from a local pet store, raising concerns over the potential spread of rabies, a deadly viral disease.
The incident occurred on January 18 at a pet store in the southern district of Chertanovo. According to store employees, the hamsters escaped from their cages due to a malfunctioning door.
Immediate response from authorities
Upon receiving reports of the missing hamsters, authorities swiftly launched a manhunt to locate the animals. Teams of animal control officers, veterinarians, and police officers have been deployed to search nearby streets, parks, and residential areas.
Residents have been urged to remain vigilant and report any sightings of escaped hamsters to the authorities. The Moscow Department of Veterinary Medicine has also issued a warning, advising residents to avoid contact with stray animals and to seek medical attention immediately if bitten or scratched.
Potential health risks
Rabies is a serious viral disease that affects the central nervous system of mammals, including humans. It is primarily transmitted through the bite of an infected animal, and if left untreated, it can be fatal.
The escaped hamsters may have come into contact with infected animals while in the pet store, raising concerns that they could now be carriers of the rabies virus. Symptoms of rabies in hamsters include changes in behavior, such as aggression or lethargy, and excessive salivation.
Public health measures
In response to the potential rabies risk, health officials have initiated a vaccination campaign for pets in the affected area. Free rabies vaccines are being offered at veterinary clinics, and residents are encouraged to get their pets vaccinated to protect them from infection.
Additionally, the Moscow Department of Health has set up a hotline for residents to report any suspected cases of rabies. The hotline number is +7 (495) 539-39-29.
Ongoing investigation
Authorities are continuing their investigation into the incident and are working to determine the source of the potential rabies infection. The pet store where the hamsters escaped has been temporarily closed, and all animals remaining in the store are being tested for rabies.
The manhunt for the escaped hamsters is ongoing, and authorities are urging residents to cooperate with the investigation and report any sightings of the animals.
