KUCHING: Seventeen rabies cases leading to 15 human fatalities were recorded in Sarawak from January 1 to September 17 this year.
State Health Department (JKNS) director, Dr Ooi Choo Huck on Wednesday (Sept 20), said five of the 17 cases were recorded in Sibu Division, four in the Serian Division, three in the Kuching Division, three in the Bintulu Division, and two in the Samarahan Division.
“There has been a significant increase in cases compared to only ten cases during the same period in 2022, representing a 70 per cent increase,” he said.
“The cumulative total of rabies cases among humans in Sarawak reported since the outbreak was declared in July 2017 now stands at 72 cases with 65 fatalities.
“Based on an assessment of four deaths in August and September, two cases had a history of being bitten by pet dogs, one case had a history of being scratched by a pet cat, while one case is suspected to have contracted the infection while handling the carcass of a pet dog.
“None of these cases sought treatment at any healthcare facility after being bitten, scratched, or handled the animals. Therefore, the public is advised to seek immediate treatment at the nearest healthcare facility after being bitten or scratched by pets,” Ooi said.
The public, he advised, should not handle the carcasses of animals with unknown infection status, including pets, and should report such carcasses to local authorities for proper handling.
To improve access to necessary treatment and anti-rabies vaccines for affected residents, JKNS has established 64 post-bite clinics in public healthcare facilities and 29 in private facilities across the state.
Rabies immunoglobulin (RIG) injection services are also available at 11 hospitals in Sarawak for high-risk cases.
In light of the increase in rabies cases among humans in Sarawak, the public is reminded to always take preventive measures to avoid rabies infection.
Actions to be taken if bitten or scratched by an animal or exposed to its saliva include:
- ● Immediately wash the wound with running water and soap for at least 15 minutes.
- ● Seek treatment at a post-bite clinic or the nearest healthcare facility.
- ● Ensure complete administration of anti-rabies vaccines as scheduled by a medical practitioner.
- ● Do not handle any wild animals, including stray dogs and cats, whether alive or dead. Report to the Sarawak Veterinary Services Department (DVS) or the local authorities for further action.
He added that JKNS has held discussions with various agencies, including DVS Sarawak, to strengthen cooperation in addressing rabies transmission in Sarawak.
Measures taken by them include involvement in rabies vaccination programmes for dogs (mass vaccination) in locations with confirmed rabies cases among animals and increasing public awareness about rabies.
