The Department of Health (DOH) continues to urge the public to remain vigilant and proactive in preventing rabies transmission.
The DOH observed a consistent number of rabies cases in the country, showing a 20% decrease with 12 cases reported from August 18 to 31, 2024, compared to the 15 cases from August 4 to 17, 2024.
As of September 14, 2024, a total of 354 rabies cases have been recorded nationwide. This represents a 23% increase compared to the 287 cases reported in the same period last year. All confirmed rabies cases are fatal.
With the latest data, ten (10) regions—the National Capital Region (NCR), Ilocos Region, Cagayan Valley, Bicol Region, Central Visayas, Eastern Visayas, Zamboanga Peninsula, Northern Mindanao, Davao Region, and Soccsksargen have shown an increase in rabies cases in the past month.
Rabies is preventable through timely vaccination of both pets and individuals who are exposed to the virus.
Individuals bitten by animals should seek immediate medical attention and, if necessary, post-exposure prophylaxis (PEP) to prevent rabies infection.
“Rabies is 100% fatal once symptoms appear.”
“Rabies is 100% fatal once symptoms appear, but it is also 100% preventable through timely vaccination of dogs and cats and prompt treatment of humans after exposure,” Health Secretary Ted Herbosa said.
Vaccinating dogs and cats are the most effective way to stop rabies.
“We cannot afford to be complacent with such a dangerous disease.”
“We cannot afford to be complacent with such a dangerous disease. DOH supports the Department of Agriculture in its request for a complete budget for dog and cat vaccination,” Herbosa concluded.
Earlier this year, Agriculture Secretary Francisco Tiu Laurel Jr. said that P110 million is needed to vaccinate around 22 million dogs and cats in the country.
