Focus of rabies control strategy now on cats, says Swak minister

Sarawak deputy premier Dr Sim Kui Hian says half of the rabies cases reported in the state are from bites and scratches involving cats.

Sarawak deputy premier Dr Sim Kui Hian said discussions have been held with the state health department and state veterinary services department to develop an integrated action plan, Bernama reported.

“Rabies continues to be a serious threat in Sarawak, with about half of the reported bites and scratches involving cats, aside from stray dogs.

“The main challenge in rabies control now is vaccinating cats, which is more difficult because these animals tend to scratch and their saliva can carry the dangerous virus,” he told reporters at an event in Kuching today.

Sim, who is also Sarawak’s public health, housing and local government minister, reminded the public not to take the rabies threat lightly and to always take preventive measures, including ensuring their pets receive regular vaccinations.

“Immediate action must be taken if bitten by a dog or scratched by a cat, which includes first washing the wound with water and seeking treatment at a clinic for assessment and vaccination.

“Rabies vaccines for humans are now available in clinics, allowing treatment to be given quickly and effectively,” he was quoted as saying.

His comments come in the wake of the latest death involving rabies in Sarawak.

A 10-year-old Sarawakian boy in Kuching died from rabies on March 18, becoming the third fatality from the disease this year.

The Sarawak health department said the boy was bitten by a stray dog on Feb 11 but he cleaned the wound himself at home without seeking medical treatment.

It said the main risk factor in the 10-year-old’s case was the delay in seeking treatment after being bitten by the stray dog.

The department said 87 people have died from rabies since an outbreak was declared in the state in July 2017.

It reminded the public that rabies can spread through animal bites, scratches, or exposure to saliva of animals infected with rabies, including dogs and cats.

“If bitten or scratched, the wound must be immediately cleaned with flowing water and soap for at least 15 minutes, followed by immediate treatment at a health facility,” it said.