By DayakDaily Team
KUCHING, Oct 28: A 51-year-old man who kept seven unvaccinated pet dogs has become the latest rabies fatality in Sarawak, bringing the total number of human deaths from the disease this year to six, the same number recorded during the corresponding period in 2024.
The Sarawak Health Department (JKN Sarawak) said the man passed away at a private healthcare facility in Kuching Division after laboratory tests confirmed he was infected with rabies.
According to the department, the victim began experiencing fever and numbness in his hands on Oct 8 and sought outpatient treatment the next day.
However, his condition deteriorated, and he was admitted to hospital on Oct 18 when he became weak and unable to drink water.
Investigations found that the man had no history of animal bites or scratches but had handled the carcass of one of his dogs in June 2025.
He had kept seven dogs, none of which were vaccinated against rabies and were allowed to roam freely. Several of the dogs were later reported dead or missing under unknown circumstances.
JKN Sarawak expressed its condolences to the deceased’s family and reminded the public that rabies is almost 100 per cent fatal once symptoms appear but entirely preventable through early treatment.
“Rabies kills, but it can be stopped. Pet owners must take responsibility by ensuring their animals are vaccinated annually, not handled after death, and not allowed to roam freely.
“Contact the Department of Veterinary Services (DVS) or your local authority (PBT) for safe disposal. Rabies can be transmitted through saliva or body fluids of dead animals,” the department stressed.
Anyone bitten or scratched by an animal, even own pets, are reminded to immediately wash the wound with soap and water for at least 15 minutes and seek prompt medical care for Post-Exposure Prophylaxis (PEP).
JKN Sarawak urged all Sarawakians to play their part in eradicating rabies as simple actions such as vaccinating pets, reporting suspicious animals, and refraining from handling carcasses personally can save lives. — DayakDaily
