By DayakDaily Team
KUCHING, Oct 28: A total of 67.5 per cent of animal bite cases reported in Sarawak this year involved pets, underscoring that the risk of rabies transmission often originates from within households rather than solely from stray animals.
Sarawak Health Department (JKN Sarawak) disclosed from Jan 1 to Oct 18, 2025, a total of 16,765 animal bite cases were reported statewide, averaging 399 cases per week.
Of these, 10,322 cases (61.6 per cent) involved cat bites or scratches, 6,238 (37.2 per cent) involved dogs, and 205 (1.2 per cent) were linked to other animals.
“Of the six human rabies cases reported this year, four victims did not seek medical treatment after being bitten or scratched. Such actions are extremely dangerous and can be fatal,” JKN Sarawak stressed in a statement today.
The department urged pet owners to vaccinate their dogs and cats annually, refrain from letting them roam freely, and seek immediate medical treatment following any bite or scratch.
“Rabies is a disease that is almost 100 per cent fatal once symptoms appear, yet it is also 100 per cent preventable with early treatment.
“Simple actions like vaccinating pets, washing wounds promptly, and seeking medical care can save lives,” it added.
JKN Sarawak also reminded the public not to handle animal carcasses directly and to contact the Department of Veterinary Services (DVS) or local authorities for safe disposal to prevent potential infection.
“Protect yourself, your family, and your community, starting with your pets today,” the department added, in urging all Sarawakians to player their part in eradicating rabies. — DayakDaily
