SAN FERNANDO CITY, La Union (PIA) – The Department of Health (DOH) in Region 1 is ramping up its rabies awareness campaign after a significant rise in suspected rabies cases in the first quarter of 2024.
 
Six suspected rabies cases were reported from January 1 to March 9, a 100 percent increase compared to the three cases recorded in the same period last year.
 
According to the Regional Epidemiological Surveillance Unit, Pangasinan has the most with three cases, followed by La Union with two, and Ilocos Norte with one.
 
The cases involved people between 11 and 82 years old, with males comprising most of the victims (five out of six or 83.3 percent).
 
The 50 to 54 age group was the most affected, with two cases (33.3 percent).
 
Tragically, all six individuals who contracted rabies died, resulting in a 100 percent case fatality rate.
 
DOH-Region 1 Regional Director Paula Paz Sydiongco emphasized the continuing threat of rabies in the Philippines.
 
She urged pet owners to collaborate with local governments to strengthen anti-rabies programs.
 
“Kaya importante na magtulong-tulong tayo kasama ang mga lokal na pamahalaan upang pagtibayin ang programang anti-rabies gaya ng pagbibigay ng tamang impormasyon sa mga pet owners, pagbabakuna sa ating mga alagang aso at pusa and to ensure that anti-rabies vaccines are accessible in all animal bite centers,” Director Sydiongco said.
 
(There's a need for continued collaboration between the DOH and local governments to solidify our anti-rabies programs. This includes public education for pet owners, ensuring pet vaccinations, and guaranteeing the accessibility of anti-rabies vaccines in all animal bite centers.)
 
Rabies is a deadly viral disease that attacks the nervous system.
 
It is preventable through vaccination, but once symptoms appear, it is fatal.
 
Director Sydiongco stressed that the rise in rabies cases serves as a wake-up call for pet owners to be more responsible.
 
Vaccination of pets is crucial not only for their well-being but also for the health and safety of their families and communities.
 
“Patuloy din po ang pagsasagawa ng regional office ng mga programa at mga aktibidad upang mapangalagaan ang mga alagang hayop at maitaguyod ang Responsible Pet Ownership kasabay ng pagpapaalala ng tamang pagbabakuna ng kanilang mga alagang aso at pusa upang mapangalagaan at mailayo sa rabies,” she said.
 
(The DOH regional office is committed to promoting responsible pet ownership through various programs and activities. They constantly remind pet owners about the importance of vaccinating their dogs and cats to prevent rabies)
 
Sydiongco also advised the public to seek immediate medical attention if bitten by an animal. (JCR/AMB/PIA Region 1)