KUCHING: State Veterinary Services Department yesterday said that early this month, 96 samples of dog brain tissues had been tested, of which 32 samples were found to be rabies-positive.
As for cats, 13 samples of cat brain tissues had been tested out of which nine samples were found to be rabies positive.
For cases involving wild animals, the department said eight samples were tested since 2017 and all were found to be negative.
The department director Dr Adrian Susin Ambud said the tests were carried out using the Direct Fluorescent Antibody Test (FAT).
In a media statement, he said the department would vaccinate more animals in an effort to put a stop to the spread of rabies statewide.
He said as of yesterday, a total of 110,000 dogs and 8,545 cats had been injected with anti-rabies vaccination.
In addition to that, more than 10,000 animals were also given anti-rabies injection by private veterinary clinics, he said.
On a separate issue, the department clarified that only one cat had been identified to be rabies positive in Kampung Tambirat in Asajaya in Samarahan.
Dr Adrian said the cat was actually a stray cat that was hit by a motorist.
The motorist was trying the save the cat when it bit him.
The cat was later sent to the department diagnostic laboratory where a test on its brain tissue confirmed that it was rabies positive.
The motorist was immediately given anti-rabies vaccination at a nearby hospital.
Dr Adrian reiterated the department’s call to the public to have their pet animals vaccinated.
He warned that rabies could spread either through animal bites or scratches.
He, therefore, advised them to always be cautious and avoid being bitten, but if bitten they should wash the bite or scratch wounds for about 15 minutes and immediately seek medical treatment.
