Rabies Now Involve Cats, Intensive Comprehensive Approach Necessary To Curb Rabies
KUCHING: The rabies threat in Sarawak has now entered a new phase as infections are no longer confined to dogs alone, but instead also involve cats, consequently raising concerns among the community.
Sarawak Deputy Premier Datuk Amar Professor Dr Sim Kui Hian said that this development demands a more comprehensive approach to curb the spread of the disease.
He revealed that so far this year, three rabies cases involving deaths have been recorded, thereby showing that the disease has yet to be fully contained.
According to him, current trends show an increase in infections originating from cats through bites and scratches.
“Half of the infections now come from cats, not just stray dogs,” he said when met during the Majlis Ramah Mesra Rakyat organised by the Petra Jaya Parliamentary Penghulu & Community Leaders Association at the CIDB Convention Centre Sarawak here on Sunday.
In this regard, he emphasised the need to re-evaluate rabies control strategies, including strengthening animal population monitoring and expanding vaccination programmes.
At the same time, pet owners are reminded to ensure annual vaccinations are carried out, in addition to taking immediate action should a bite or scratch occur.
“If bitten or scratched, immediately wash the wound and go to a clinic because we do not know whether the animal is infected,” he said.
He further stressed that efforts to curb rabies require the cooperation of all parties, including the community, and cannot rely on government agencies alone.
“We all must play a role, taking collective responsibility to ensure rabies can be controlled,” he remarked.
He added that the government will continue to empower free vaccination programmes and awareness campaigns, yet the success of curbing rabies depends on the level of concern and collective action of the community. — UKASnews
