KUCHING: Sarawak recorded 13 deaths from 15 rabies cases from Jan 1 to Aug 7, says the state Health Department.
Its director Dr Ooi Choo Huck said this was a notable increase compared to eight cases reported in the same period last year.
He said the cumulative total of human rabies cases in Sarawak now stood at 70, with 63 deaths, since an outbreak was declared in July 2017.
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"Of the 15 cases reported this year, five were from Sibu, four from Serian, three from Kuching, two from Bintulu and one from Samarahan," he said in a statement on Thursday (Aug 10).
Dr Ooi said 11 of the cases were bitten by dogs and two cases bitten or scratched by cats, while two cases did not have a clear history of exposure.
"Of the 13 cases bitten or scratched by animals, eight patients did not seek treatment from any health facility," he said.
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To increase access to treatment and anti-rabies vaccine, the department has set up post-bite clinics at 64 public and 29 private health facilities throughout Sarawak.
Eleven hospitals in the state also provide rabies immunoglobulin (RIG) jabs to high-risk cases.
In view of the rising number of cases, Dr Ooi reminded the public to take preventive measures against rabies.
"If you are bitten or scratched by an animal, wash the wound immediately with running water and soap for at least 15 minutes, then seek immediate treatment at the nearest post-bite clinic.
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"Make sure you complete the anti-rabies doses according to the appointments given by medical practitioners," he said.
Dr Ooi also reminded animal owners to get their pets vaccinated annually against rabies and to immediately report to the Veterinary Services Department (DVS) if their pets turn aggressive or lethargic.
"We will continue to work with the Health Ministry, state Public Health, Housing and Local Government Ministry and state DVS to eradicate rabies in Sarawak by 2030.
"As such, we urge the public to comply with the advice and instructions from the Health Ministry and relevant agencies," he said.
