Masked palm civets continue to test positive for rabies; Forestry Bureau bans entry of dogs and cats into mountains

▲ Scenic view of Taiping Mountain. (Photo / Courtesy of Luodong Forest District Office website)

Travel Center / Comprehensive Report

The Forestry Bureau stated on the 6th that the current rabies outbreak still affects nine counties (cities) across Taiwan. From August 1, 2014 (103/8/1) to July 31, 2015 (104/7/31), the entry of dogs, cats, and other mammals into the following areas remains prohibited: Taiping Mountain, Neidong, Manyueyuan, Dongyueshan, Guanwu, Daxueshan, Baxianshan, Wuling, Hehuanshan, Aowanda, Alishan, Tengzhi, Shuangliu, Kenting, Zhiben, Xiangyang, Fuyuan, Chinan, Qilan, Mingchi, Huisun Forest Recreation Areas, as well as the Danong-Dafu Plain Forest Park, Aogu Wetland Forest Park, Linhou Slin Plain Forest Park, and Lalashan Nature Reserve.

The Forestry Bureau pointed out,that dead masked palm civets have been found in its managed forest recreation areas, and tests have confirmed rabies infection. To ensure the safety of pets and their owners and to prevent the spread of rabies, the public is urged not to bring dogs, cats, or other mammals to the aforementioned areas for leisure activities.The Forestry Bureau also calls on the public to avoid contact with wild animals. Additionally, if dead dogs, cats, or other carnivorous wild animals are found, please report them to local epidemic prevention authorities and respective forest district offices.