KUCHING: Rabies cases in the state are increasing at an alarming rate, said Deputy Premier Datuk Seri Dr Sim Kui Hian.
He said statistics this year showed six human rabies cases with four deaths, one each in Sibu, Kanowit, Siburan and Bintulu.
“Ever since rabies came about in 2017, 50 deaths have been recorded till this month,” he said.
Dr Sim advised the public to take dog bites seriously and ensure dog owners vaccinate their dogs, while they themselves are encouraged to get the vaccination.
“We want everybody to take dog bites seriously, we cannot assume that your dogs are only kept indoors.
“I know it’s inconvenient to go to the hospital but it’s your life and early vaccination saves lives.
“When rabies reaches your brain by 99 per cent, you can die and that is why you (the public) have to be careful,” he said.
With six rabies cases at the beginning of the year, he said it is worrying and urged the public to take extra safety measures.
Dr Sim was speaking to reporters on the sidelines after attending a press conference of ‘The Asia for Animals Sarawak Conference 2023’ at the Borneo Convention Centre Kuching (BCCK) today.
He said the state government with the help of the Immune Belt Enforcement Team (IBET) will try to help curb problems involving rabies.
Adding further, Dr Sim pointed out that IBET with its long-term solutions to control rabies by vaccinating the public and delegating its authorities to specially trained people is a relief.
Meanwhile, he explained that in the future, apart from vaccination, the Veterinary Department is expected to work with IBET to distribute the swine flu vaccine.
For the record, the bite cases reported in Sarawak from Jan 1 to Mar 5 this year include a staggering number of 2,210 cases, with dogs numbering 1,205 cases, cats 985 cases and other animals 20 cases.
