FILE PHOTO: A dog being examined
MANILA, Philippines — San Lazaro Hospital has recorded 16 cases of rabies infection from January to March of this year.
Janette Sarmiento rushed her grandchild to hospital after being scratched by a dog.
“Kailangan kompletuhin po niya ang turok. Last na turok po ngayon para po sigurado,” she said.
(She has to complete the vaccination. Now is the last injection. This is to ensure its efficacy.)
Experts have warned of the spread of rabies since the disease is fatal.
However, the Department of Health (DOH) is also worried over reports that there is a global shortage of anti-rabies vaccine for humans.
“Was found out to be tainted so they had to stop the supply,” said Health Secretary Francisco Duque.
With this, the DOH is intensifying its anti-rabies campaign or vaccination of animals to prevent the spread of rabies.
Infectious disease specialist Dr. Nimfa Putong said that the spread of rabies can be prevented if animals, particularly dogs, will be vaccinated.
“During summer mataas nga ang rabies cases of animal bites,” said the specialist.
(During summer, there is an increase in rabies cases of animal bites.)
“Kailangan when we combat rabies ang focus natin is more on animals because according to WHO 99% talaga ng rabies ay nagmumula sa kagat ng aso,” she added.
(When we combat rabies, our focus should is more on animals because according to WHO 99% of rabies come from dogs.)
The DOH will use government hospitals in providing information to the public regarding rabies.
The agency is also encouraging local government units to support its campaign and to teach their area of jurisdiction about responsible pet ownership.
The DOH and experts advised those bitten by dogs, cats or rats to immediately wash the wound with water and to immediately go the specialists to receive advice and vaccine against rabies. — Aiko Miguel | UNTV News & Rescue
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