KUCHING: Two rabies-positive cats have been reported in Sarawak between January 6 and 10, according to the Department of Veterinary Services Sarawak (DVSS).
In a statement issued today (Jan 11), the department said the first case involved a free-roaming pet cat at Jalan Akses Stesen Gunung Serapi here, identified following a bite incident.
The second case was reported in Kampung Sambir, Asajaya, also involving a free-roaming pet cat.
Rabies, caused by the lyssavirus, is transmitted through the saliva of infected animals, primarily dogs and cats, via bites or scratches.
The disease poses a significant public health challenge in over 150 countries, particularly in Asia and Africa.
It is one of the oldest and most feared diseases, claiming tens of thousands of lives annually.
Globally, dog bites account for 99 per cent of human rabies cases, but the disease is preventable through dog vaccination and bite prevention measures.
However, once the virus reaches the central nervous system and clinical symptoms appear, rabies is nearly always fatal.
Timely post-exposure prophylaxis (PEP) can prevent rabies-related deaths by stopping the virus from progressing.
PEP includes immediate and thorough wound washing with soap and running water for 15 minutes, administration of rabies immunoglobulin (RIG), and a series of four rabies vaccinations on days 1, 3, 7, and 14.
The DVSS urges the public to seek immediate medical attention if bitten or scratched by animals.
Prompt action, such as cleaning wounds and obtaining PEP, is critical in preventing the disease.
