KUCHING: The 12 people bitten by rabies-infected dogs here recently are in stable condition.
The Ministry of Health (MoH) said all the victims have been given anti-rabies vaccination, Rabies Immunoglobulin (RIG) treatment and outpatient care.
It was referring to the media statement by Kuching South City Council (MBKS) on Jan 11 regarding the 12 cases of positive rabies dog bites in the Tabuan Desa Indah and Lorong Tabuan Timur.
According to the ministry on Jan 6 eight cases of dog bites were reported in the Tabuan Desa Indah area, Lorong Keranji, and the individuals affected received treatment at the Sarawak General Hospital (SGH).
“On Jan 7, three more dog bite cases were reported from the same area and the individuals received treatment at SGH,” it said in a statement today (Jan 14).
It added that on Jan 6 one victim was admitted to the hospital for wound debridement, while others received outpatient treatment.
“All 11 were bitten by the same stray dog, which was captured by the local authority (PBT) on Jan 8.
“The laboratory test results from the Veterinary Services Department (DVS) on Jan 11 confirmed the dog was positive for rabies,” it said.
It said the 12th case involved a pet dog at Lorong Tabuan Timur nd the victim received treatment at SGH on Jan 7.
“The dog was voluntarily surrendered to the PBT, and the laboratory test results from DVS confirmed the dog’s positive rabies status,” it said.
In this case, it said the individual who was discharged from the hospital on Jan 9, also received anti-rabies vaccine, RIG treatment, and outpatient care.
On a related note, MoH said the State Health Department, along with DVS, PBT, and relevant local agencies, will intensify control activities in the affected areas with the local community, including a dog vaccination campaign to control the spread of rabies.
“We would like to emphasise that rabies infection can be prevented with immediate treatment,” it said.
Among the measures are, if bitten or scratched by an animal or should one come into contact with animal saliva, wash the area immediately with running water and soap for at least 15 minutes and seek medical treatment promptly.
It also includes ensuring completion of the full anti-rabies vaccine regimen.
The public has also been advised not to handle any wild animals, including stray dogs and cats, whether alive or dead, but alert DVS or the local authorities for further action.
