Over 100 people bitten by animals in Chisinau last week
In the last week, over 100 people were bitten by animals, with most attacks attributed to stray animals, according to the capital's authorities.
On July 20, Aliona Drăgănel, the interim head of the General Directorate for Medical and Social Assistance, reported 103 recorded cases of animal aggression, with approximately 70% attributed to stray animals.
In light of these findings, authorities are reiterating the recommendations from the National Public Health Agency (ANSP). They advise the public to avoid contact with stray animals and not to attempt to feed or pet them, as their behavior can be unpredictable.
If a person is bitten or scratched, it is crucial to wash the wound immediately with soap and water, followed by disinfection to minimize the risk of infection. Health experts highlight that anti-rabies vaccinations are available free of charge in the Republic of Moldova and are effective only if administered before symptoms manifest.
Individuals who are attacked by animals are urged to seek emergency medical assistance. Rabies is a severe viral disease that can be transmitted from animals to humans and affects the central nervous system. The virus is typically spread through the bite of an infected animal, and its incubation period can range from 10-14 days to several months. Once symptoms appear, the disease is almost invariably fatal.
According to ANSP data, over 3,000 individuals in Chișinău sought anti-rabies treatment last year after coming into contact with potentially infected animals or being attacked.
Additionally, the number of rabies cases reported in animals has increased significantly in 2025, with 46 cases documented compared to 18 in 2024—an increase of 2.5 times. The National Public Health Agency asserts that the presence of stray animals in communities contributes to the spread of the rabies virus and heightens the risk of infection for the population.
