At least 17 people were injured after a wild animal, suspected by villagers to be a rabid fox, attacked residents sleeping outdoors and near their homes in Vouva village of Santalpur taluka in Patan district after midnight on Saturday.
Three people who suffered severe bite injuries remain under treatment at GMERS Medical College and Hospital in Dharpur. A young girl suffered a serious bite on her cheek, while an elderly woman sustained a deep wound on her scalp. Several other residents were bitten on different parts of their bodies, sparking panic in the village.
Several residents attacked through the night
According to injured resident Laxman Ahir, the animal approached his house at around 4.30 am and attacked his son. Ahir said he managed to drive the animal away by punching it and rescued the boy.
The animal then attacked Ahir’s elder brother, biting him near the jaw. It later entered Thakor Vaas, where six or seven people were reportedly attacked. People sleeping in an open ground were also targeted.
Villagers said the attacks continued until morning, with cattle also reportedly attacked by the animal.
Victims receive treatment at Dharpur hospital
The injured were taken to GMERS Medical College and Hospital in Dharpur. Medical officer Dr Akash Patel said around 15 patients had reported to the hospital since 6 am.
“All the patients were given immunoglobulin, while three patients with more severe bite injuries remain under treatment,” Dr Patel said.
Another injured woman said she returned home around 5 am after attending bhajans at a temple. She was sleeping near her house when the animal emerged from nearby bushes and attacked her, leaving her with severe injuries to her face.
Forest department investigates animal’s identity
The Forest Department has not yet confirmed which animal was responsible for the attacks. Although villagers believe it was a rabid fox, officials said its species would be established only after technical investigation.
Teams collected information about pugmarks found at the site and recorded statements from villagers. Pugmarks were found near a fence, with officials saying the marks indicated that the animal may have emerged from scrubland and passed underneath the fencing.
Bloodstains were also found at the location.
“The species will be established only after analysing the pugmarks and completing other technical investigations,” a Forest Department official said.
Villagers urged to remain alert
The attacks have left residents concerned that the animal could still be in the area. Officials have advised villagers to remain vigilant, particularly around scrubland and areas where people or livestock may be exposed.
The Forest Department’s investigation is expected to determine the animal’s identity and help establish whether it was carrying rabies or another infection.