KUCHING – The Sarawak government has approved RM7.07 million for rabies control and eradication programmes this year, said Deputy Chief Minister Datuk Douglas Uggah Embas.
He said the state government is serious about eliminating the disease, and has provided the required funding, personnel and logistics.
“Integrated and collaborative rabies control efforts in the state have resulted in heightened community awareness on how to recognise and respond to the health threat.
“We have also seen improved case management through cross-sectoral rapid response and integrated bite-case management, as well as improved mass vaccination achieving more than 70% coverage of the dog population,” he said in his speech at the state-level World Rabies Day 2021 programme here today.
The text of the speech was read out by state Local Government and Housing Minister Datuk Seri Dr Sim Kui Hian.
Uggah said since the rabies incursion into Sarawak in July 2017, the state has lost 33 lives to the disease.
“We can control and end rabies among our dog population. Every pet owner must bear the responsibility of keeping their pets healthy by getting their pets checked regularly and ensuring they get their core vaccinations, as well as the rabies jab.
“If you have been bitten by a dog, carry out first aid measures like thorough cleaning of the wound with soap and water, and immediately seek medical treatment, including getting the human post-exposure rabies vaccination. This will prevent you from developing symptoms.” – Bernama, October 2, 2021
