Rabid dog illegally brought from Morocco triggers major health alert in Italy

A dog illegally brought to Italy from Morocco tested positive for rabies after developing severe neurological symptoms, prompting a major public health operation in the municipality of Vittorio Veneto, in the northeast of Italy.

According to local health authorities, the mixed-breed dog was taken to a veterinary clinic on May 27 after showing symptoms consistent with rabies. Investigations later revealed that the animal had been illegally brought from Morocco several months earlier by a relative of its owner following a tourist trip.

Given the seriousness of the case and the potential public health risk, the dog was euthanized. Tests carried out by the Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale delle Venezie, Italy’s national reference center for rabies, confirmed both the diagnosis and that the viral strain originated in Morocco.

The dog's owner, who was reportedly bitten by the animal, was among those exposed. Health authorities said 32 people received preventive treatment after being identified as potential contacts.

The case also triggered extensive monitoring of animals that may have been exposed. Ten dogs were placed under veterinary observation and remain in good health, according to local authorities.

To prevent any possible spread of the virus, the mayor of Vittorio Veneto signed an ordinance making rabies vaccination mandatory for all dogs and cats in the municipality. The measure affects around 4,400 dogs and 900 cats, including animals living in feline colonies.

Local officials said the incident marked the first confirmed rabies case recorded in northeastern Italy in about 15 years and stressed that all potential human and animal contacts had been rapidly identified and monitored.