By DayakDaily Team
KUCHING, May 25: The Sarawak Health Department has confirmed the State’s first human rabies case for this year involving a 13-year-old boy from Kampung Segedup here.
According to a media release, the case marked a decrease of two cases compared to the same period last year.
“The boy displayed symptoms such as fever, loss of appetite, vomiting, hallucinations, delirium, difficulty walking, and trouble swallowing water on May 21.
“He sought treatment at a private hospital before being referred to the Sarawak General Hospital, where he was confirmed to have been infected and is currently receiving treatment,” said the department.
Investigations revealed that the case had a history of being scratched by a stray cat but did not seek medical treatment.
He also frequently played with and fed stray cats, and has handled the carcass of a cat that died after being hit by a vehicle—all of which indicates high-risk exposure to rabies.
“The number of cases of bites from dogs and cats in Sarawak is still high, although it does not lead to rabies.
“From 2017 until the 20th Epidemiological Week of 2025 (May 11 to 17), a total of 63,301 dog bite cases, 57,210 cat bite or scratch cases, and 1,832 incidents involving bites from other animals were reported,” said the department.
The department further advised the public to remain vigilant to prevent the spread of rabies by avoiding approaching, feeding, or handling stray dogs and cats whose vaccination statuses are unknown.
“Don’t handle animal carcasses without a clear cause of death. If you are bitten, scratched, or exposed to an animal’s saliva, wash the affected area with water and soap for at least 15 minutes and immediately seek treatment at a health facility, including completing the anti-rabies vaccination as scheduled.
“Report sightings of stray animals to the Department of Veterinary Services (DVS) or local authorities without making physical contact with the animals.
“Pet owners must take full responsibility by ensuring their dogs and cats receive annual anti-rabies vaccinations and are not left to roam unsupervised,” said the department.
It also encouraged parents to educate their children about the dangers of rabies and the importance of avoiding stray animals. — DayakDaily
