KUCHING: Ten positive animal rabies cases have been reported in the final week of August, with cases detected in Kuching, Samarahan, Serian, Lundu and Bintulu.
Department of Veterinary Services Sarawak (DVS) director Dr Adrian Susin Ambud said four cases were detected in Kuching at Jalan Selangan Batu, Taman Hui Sing, Milan Square Jalan Wan Alwi and Jalan Chawan.
“Two cases were detected in Padawan at Kampung Tematu and Taman Indah Landeh.
“Additionally, one case each was detected at Jalan Stakan Kota Sentosa, Samarahan; Pasar Lama Tebedu, Serian; Kampung Bagak, Lundu; and Batu 8 Jalan Bintulu-Miri, Bintulu,” he said in a statement today.
Dr Adrain further said the department and the local councils, Sarawak Security and Enforcement Unit and State Health Department have been actively monitoring the rabies situation in Sarawak.
“The Department of Veterinary Services Sarawak has also intensified its anti-rabies vaccination programmes throughout Sarawak,” he said.
DVS will organise anti-rabies vaccination programmes at three locations, namely at the compound of Sepupuk Public Hall, Niah in Miri on Aug 26 and 27 from 9 am to 4 pm; Song Public Stadium in Kapit on Aug 26 from 9 am to 4 pm; and at SJK Chung Hua Sungai Tapang Hilir, MJC on Aug 26 from 8 am to 3 pm.
“We would like to appeal to all dog owners to send their animals for rabies vaccination as it is mandatory under Section 40, Dog Vaccination Order under Veterinary Public Health Ordinance 1999.
“Dog owners must be responsible to ensure their pets are vaccinated with anti-rabies vaccine,” he said.
After the vaccination, dog owners should quarantine and isolate their dogs for 28 days to let them build immunity against rabies.
“Dog owners must also ensure their dogs are kept within their home compound only,” he said.
The public should take extra precautions by seeking treatment immediately if bitten by a dog or a cat.
