By Jacob Achoi
KUCHING, April 2: Department of Veterinary Services Sarawak (DVSS) aims to vaccinate 50,000 dogs this year, said it’s director Dr Adrian Susin.
He said such an effort was to reduce the number of rabies cases in the State.
“Vaccination of dogs across the State is an ongoing process, and this year, the department is targetting at least 50,000 dogs to be vaccinated in our effort to rid of rabies,” he told reporters today, after attending a mass vaccination, licencing and microchipping exercise at DVSS headquarters in Semenggok, here.
The programme was officiated by Batu Kitang assemblyman Lo Khere Chiang, who is also chairman of Padawan Municipal Council (MPP).
According to Dr Adrian, a total of 208,886 dogs were vaccinated throughout Sarawak since the rabies outbreak was declared in 2017.
From the figure, only 20 per cent (41,868) received booster vaccinations, he said, adding that it was important for all dogs to be vaccinated against rabies annually.
Dr Adrian further said that since Jan until March 29, there were 14 areas in Sarawak where dogs tested positive for rabies.
The areas are Kuching (2), Padawan (5), Lundu (1), Sri Aman (1), Lubok Antu (1), Sibu (2), Meradong (1) and Serian (1).
The affected areas in Sg Tapang, Batu Kawa in Kuching, Bt 10, Bt 11Jln Kuching- Serian (two cases), Taman Beverly Hill and Bt 11.5 in Padawan, Kpg Tebako in Lundu, Munggun Demam in Sri Aman, Sg Ara in Lubok Antu, Lrg Kandis 6D and Telok Assan in Sibu, Sg Tulai Bintangor Mwrading and Jln Bukit Ensuna in Serian.
He explained that all the new rabies positive cases are still within the 10km radius of the previously declared rabies-infected areas which was last declared in July 2021.
Dr Adrian added that dog owners can get their pets vaccinated at DVSS by making an appointment with the association. — DayakDaily
