CV sees rising cases of rabies

CEBU, Philippines — Central Visayas has seen a rise in rabies cases over the past month, prompting the Department of Health (DOH) to urge the public to remain vigilant due to the fatal nature of the disease.

While the DOH has not disclosed exact figures for the region, Central Visayas is among the ten regions in the country experiencing an increase in rabies cases.

Other regions with rising rabies cases include the National Capital Region (NCR), Ilocos Region, Cagayan Valley, Bicol Region, Eastern Visayas, Zamboanga Peninsula, Northern Mindanao, Davao Region, and Soccsksargen.

Nationwide, 354 rabies cases have been recorded so far this year, marking a 23% increase from the 287 cases reported during the same period last year.

In Cebu City alone, 24 rabies cases have been logged, the highest number in the past five years.

The DOH emphasizes that all confirmed rabies cases are fatal, underscoring the importance of vigilance and proactive measures to prevent transmission.

“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. We cannot afford to be complacent with such a dangerous disease,” Health Secretary Teodoro J. Herbosa said.

Rabies is preventable through timely vaccination of both pets and individuals exposed to the virus. The DOH advises that individuals bitten by animals should seek immediate medical attention and, if necessary, post-exposure prophylaxis (PEP) to prevent infection. Vaccinating dogs and cats remains the most effective way to combat rabies.

Earlier this year, Agriculture Secretary Francisco Tiu Laurel Jr. highlighted the need for P110 million to vaccinate approximately 22 million dogs and cats across the country, a move supported by the DOH.

“DOH supports the Department of Agriculture in its request for a complete budget for dog and cat vaccination” Herbosa added.