The Department of Health Central Luzon Center for Health Development (DOH CLCHD) has raised concerns over a significant 54% increase in animal bite cases across the region.
DOH CLCHD Rabies Program Coordinator Joseph Michael Manlutac revealed that 411,541 animal bite cases were reported in 2024, marking a sharp rise from the previous year. This surge emphasizes the urgent need for stronger rabies prevention efforts at the community level.
While the increase in cases suggests that more people are seeking post-exposure treatment, it also highlights the ongoing threat of rabies transmission. “About 99% of global rabies cases are caused by dog bites, with children accounting for 40% of fatalities worldwide. Rabies is 100% fatal, but it is also 100% preventable with timely medical intervention,” Manlutac emphasized.
In response to the alarming spike, DOH CLCHD is ramping up its campaign on responsible pet ownership. The agency is urging pet owners to vaccinate their dogs and cats annually and to prevent them from roaming freely.
Despite the Anti-Rabies Act of 2007, which mandates pet vaccinations and penalizes negligent pet owners, compliance remains a challenge. “We urge local government units to enforce pet vaccination laws more strictly and to strengthen public education on the risks of rabies,” Manlutac said.
The DOH also discouraged the use of folk remedies like “tandok” (traditional healing), stressing the importance of seeking treatment at certified animal bite treatment centers in case of exposure.
To further combat the rising rabies threat, DOH CLCHD is launching barangay-level awareness campaigns, mass vaccination drives, and the “Kulosog-Run” this March to promote rabies prevention.
“This rise in cases is a wake-up call for stronger community action. We need to intensify awareness, encourage responsible pet ownership, and ensure timely medical response to achieve a rabies-free Central Luzon,” Manlutac concluded.
Residents are advised to visit the nearest animal bite treatment centers for proper medical care and to report stray or unvaccinated pets to local authorities. (CLJD/MJSC, PIA Region 3-Pampanga)
