Rabies Cases Surge in the Philippines

Rabies cases in the Philippines have surged by 23% this year, with the Department of Health (DOH) reporting 354 cases from January to mid-September, compared to 287 in the same period last year. Cebu City has experienced a significant spike, recording 24 cases in the first eight months of 2024, the highest in five years, with ongoing vaccination efforts being implemented by local authorities. In Meghalaya, India, 27 fatalities due to rabies have been reported over the past two years, primarily linked to dog bites, prompting urgent calls for enhanced public awareness and vaccination initiatives. The DOH is backing a budget increase for animal vaccinations to combat rabies, emphasizing that the disease is 100% preventable through timely vaccination. Health officials are urging the public to remain vigilant and seek immediate medical treatment after animal bites. Collaborative efforts are underway in various regions, including vaccinations and education campaigns to mitigate the rabies threat.