2 months ago
14
THE Department of Health (DOH), through the Central Luzon Center for Health Development (CLCHD), has raised alarm over the 54 percent increase in animal bite cases in Region 3, with 411,541 incidents recorded in 2024.
In a statement, CLCHD Rabies Program coordinator Joseph Michael Manlutac said the figure was a drastic increase from the preceding year's case tally and highlighted the need for enhanced rabies prevention measures at the community level.
He added that while the surge suggests that more people are seeking post-exposure prophylaxis and accessing healthcare services, it also underscores the persistent threat of rabies transmission.
"About 99 percent of global rabies cases are caused by dog bites, with children accounting for 40 percent of fatalities worldwide. Rabies is 100 percent fatal, but it is also 100 percent preventable with timely intervention," said Manlutac.
As a counter measure, DOH-CLCHD has reinforced its campaign on responsible pet ownership and urged to have their animals vaccinated annually and keep them from roaming freely.
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Anti-Rabies Act of 2007 mandates vaccination and imposes penalties on negligent pet owners. But compliance remains a challenge to this date and the DOH is asking local governments for assistance to combat the threat.
"We continuously urge local government units to strictly enforce pet vaccination laws and strengthen public education on the risks associated with rabies," said Manlutac.
He also discouraged traditional remedies like "tandok" or folk healing, and stressed that only D0H-certified animal bite treatment centers (ABTC) should be consulted in case of exposure.
To address the growing rabies threat, DOH-CLCHD will launch barangay-level awareness campaigns, mass vaccination drives, and the "Kulosog-Run" this month to serve as a platform to promote rabies prevention.
"The rise in cases is a wake-up call for stronger community action. We need to intensify awareness, encourage responsible pet ownership, and ensure timely medical response to achieve a rabies-free Central Luzon," Manlutac said.
The DOH also advised residents to visit their nearest ABTCs for proper medical intervention and to report any stray or unvaccinated pets to local authorities.
