Taiwan reports 39 rabies infections in animals

TAIPEI - A total of 38 ferret-badgers and one suncus murinus in Taiwan were found with rabies, the island's rabies outbreak control center announced on Sunday.

Rabies had been reported in seven counties and cities on the island, including Nantou, Yunlin, Taitung, Taichung, Tainan, Kaohsiung and Chiayi, the center said.

According to the center, 300 animal epidemic prevention staff members have been vaccinated and about 1,000 people are expected to be given vaccination shots starting on Monday.

The island started reporting rabies cases last month. Taiwan leader Ma Ying-jeou reassured the public that vaccines were sufficient and the outbreak was still under control, asking the public not to panic.

No humans or dogs have thus far been reported to be infected with the disease.

Before July, Taiwan had been rabies-free since 1959.