Around 450 people in Uttar Pradesh’s Gorakhpur district have received anti-rabies vaccinations as a precaution after consuming charanamrit prepared from the milk of a cow suspected of having rabies.
The incident came to light after the cow died on Tuesday evening following unusual behaviour. The animal’s milk had reportedly been supplied to households and two local shops in Dadi Khas and neighbouring Govindpur villages.
According to the cow’s owner, Nawami Yadav, the animal had been unwell for one to two days before its condition deteriorated. Veterinarians suspected that the cow had been bitten by a stray dog. The animal reportedly began barking before dying later that evening.
The cow’s death triggered concern among residents who had consumed charanamrit distributed during Durga Puja celebrations.
Around 50 people initially visited a community health centre on Tuesday to receive anti-rabies shots. Subsequently, a vaccination camp was organised in the village on Wednesday, where health workers administered vaccines to approximately 400 more people.
Gorakhpur Deputy Chief Medical Officer Dr Rajesh Kumar said the vaccination drive was conducted as a precautionary measure amid concerns among residents. He added that the milk was likely boiled before being used to prepare the religious offering.
However, health authorities have not officially confirmed whether the cow was infected with rabies.
450 People Get Anti-Rabies Shots in UP After Consuming Charanamrit Made From Cow’s Milk
