SIXTEEN out of the 18 rabies cases among humans reported in Sarawak this year have succumbed to the deadly viral infection, state Health Department director, Dr Ooi Choo Huck, said today.

The latest victim from the outbreak that started in 2017 was a 44-year-old Kuching woman who had six pet cats, who began exhibiting symptoms on November 28, and died last Tuesday.
Clinical samples tested confirmed she was infected with rabies, he said.

The woman’s six pet cats reportedly “mingled freely with stray animals” and all of them were never vaccinated, he added.

Though the woman denied a history of animal bites but clinical observation showed she had old scratch marks and wounds, Dr Ooi said, adding the woman also never received treatment or rabies vaccination at any health facility.

Sibu reported the highest number of rabies cases from January 1 to December 13, with five cases. Following closely were Serian and Kuching, each with four cases, followed by Bintulu (three), and Samarahan (two).

In comparison, there were only 14 incidents during the corresponding period last year, indicating an increase of four or 28.6%.

Since the outbreak in July 2017, the number of cases reported was 73 with 66 deaths.

Dr Ooi said with the increase of cases among humans and animals, including dogs and cats, Sarawakians are reminded to take preventive measures to avoid getting infected.

He said if they are bitten or scratched by an animal, or if their eyes, mouth, nose and skin show inflammatory conditions after being exposed to the animal’s saliva, they must seek immediate treatment at the post-bite clinic nearest to them.

“Anti-rabies vaccines are available at 130 post-bite clinics in public health facilities and at 29 private facilities throughout the state.

“Eleven hospitals also provide rabies immunoglobulin injection services for high-risk cases,” Dr Ooi added. – December 14, 2023.