MIRI: Two rabies cases have been detected in this city.
In a press statement released by the Sarawak State Disaster Management Committee on Thursday evening, Miri is among five new areas declared as rabies affected area, making the total number of rabies positive localities to 41 to date.
The five new areas are Jalan Teng Chin Hua, Sibu, Jalan Kilang in Bintangor(Sarikei), Jalan Airport Lama Kapit, Piasau Jaya Miri and Lutong Shell Miri.
The Sarawak State Disaster Management Committee would like to advise the public to avoid adopting or purchasing dog of unknown vaccination status and sources.
The public is also advised to have their dog vaccinated against rabies and to call the nearest Veterinary Office if their pets show signs of rabies such as turning aggressive, biting objects, excessive salivation and incoordination.
Those who have not had their dogs vaccinated must bring them to the nearest Divisional Veterinary Office for Anti-Rabies Vaccination from 8am to 10am from Monday to Friday (except Public Holiday) or to the nearest private veterinary clinics.
Annual booster is required to ensure their pets are fully protected.
The public can also access the Sarawak Disaster Information Facebook page, Instagram and Youtube for more updated information regarding upcoming Anti-Rabies Mass Vaccination and the current situation of rabies in Sarawak.
The public are also encouraged to communicate with the government through the above portals.
The Department of Veterinary Services Sarawak and Sarawak State Health Department would like to advise the public on the following:
• Wash your bite wound(s) with soap and under clean running water for at least 15 minutes. Seek medical treatment immediately at the nearest Government clinic or hospital.
• Please wash your hand with soap and clean water after handling animal.
• If your dog is sick and showing signs of rabies, please call the Rabies Hotline.
• Avoid adopting puppies/dogs from unknown sources, especially from outbreak areas. If you have already obtained a dog, you are strongly advised to observe your dog for any change in behaviour.
• Please do not dump your unwanted pets. Contact the nearest Veterinary Divisional Office or Local Council to surrender your dogs.
• Confine your dog within your house compound. Any dog found outside will be caught and removed by the Local Councils and Department of Veterinary Services Sarawak.
• If you need to walk or exercise your dog, please ensure that the dog is securely leashed.
• Do not move your pets, especially from outbreak divisions to prevent further spread of rabies.
• You are advised to have your dog licensed with the Local Council.
• You are also advised to have your pets neutered (castration/spay) to prevent infection and offsprings becoming unwanted strays.
