KUCHING: A total of 55 victims in Sarawak have died due to dog-borne rabies infection since 2017.
According to the Minister of Food Industry, Commodities, and Regional Development Datuk Seri Dr Stephen Rundi Utom, data from the state Health Department (JKNS) shows that since 2017, the cumulative number of rabies cases in humans has been 62, with 55 deaths.
“In 2023, as many as nine cases of rabies in humans were recorded, which caused seven deaths,” he said.
In this regard, he reminded the public to pay serious attention and go to the hospital immediately if bitten or scratched by an animal because rabies can be prevented if immediate treatment is done.
“If there are already signs or symptoms of rabies, it is already too late and can cause death.
“I am asking for cooperation from members of the public to cooperate with the authorities in fighting rabies in Sarawak.
“Make sure your dog is vaccinated against rabies every year without fail,” he said.
According to Dr Rundi, as many as 35 out of 173 animal samples taken throughout Sarawak this year have been found positive for rabies.
“This means people need to be careful and make sure their dogs are vaccinated with the anti-rabies vaccine,” he said.
He added that more than 10,000 dogs throughout Sarawak have been injected with anti-rabies.
Meanwhile, the state’s Department of Veterinary Services is actively conducting free anti-rabies vaccinations for dogs at veterinary offices and mass vaccinations on a regular basis.
When contacted, its director Dr Adrian Susin Ambud, said the Immune Belt Enforcement Team (IBET) has started vaccination from village to village along Sarawak’s border with neighbouring countries.
He also advised dog owners to ensure their pets are vaccinated against rabies, obtain a licence from local councils to keep their dogs, and ensure that their pets do not run free and roam.
“Neuter your dog to avoid breeding, and take good care of your dog’s welfare.
“If there are signs of rabies in your dog, please confine it, avoid being bitten or scratched by it, and contact our department immediately.
“If bitten, right away wash the wound for 15 minutes and seek treatment at the hospital to get an anti-rabies injection,” he added.
