KUCHING (Sept 27): In observance of World Rabies Day 2024, a vital anti-rabies vaccination and awareness campaign will take place tomorrow at the Multipurpose Hall in Kampung Semeba. The event, themed “Breaking Rabies Boundaries,” aims to enhance public awareness and combat the spread of rabies, a significant public health threat in Sarawak.
The initiative will be officiated by Dato Sri Dr Stephen Rundi Utom, Minister for Food Industry, Commodity and Regional Development. Activities scheduled for the day include free rabies vaccinations for dogs, dog licensing and microchipping, educational sessions on rabies prevention, and community engagement initiatives to foster understanding of this deadly disease.
Dr Rundi emphasized the urgency of the situation, noting, “Since the outbreak began in 2017, Sarawak has reported 81 human rabies infections, tragically resulting in 74 fatalities. In 2024 alone, six new cases have emerged.” He highlighted alarming global statistics, stating that rabies claims over 59,000 lives annually, predominantly in Asia and Africa, reinforcing the need for immediate action to safeguard communities.
Datu Dr Adrian Susin Ambud, Director of the Department of Veterinary Services Sarawak, reiterated the importance of dog vaccinations, stating, “Unvaccinated dogs are the primary reservoir for the rabies virus in our state. Vaccinating our dogs not only protects them but is crucial for public health.” Under the Veterinary Public Health Ordinance 1999, rabies vaccination is mandatory, with fines of up to RM1,000 for non-compliance.
This year, a total of 778 animal samples have been tested in Sarawak, revealing 110 positive rabies cases, with 72 of these (65 percent) identified in Kuching. The State Health Department reported that from January 1 to August 31, 2024, 12,587 animal bite cases were documented, averaging 360 weekly. A significant portion of these cases involved pet animals, underscoring the importance of vaccination.
As part of the ongoing efforts to eradicate rabies, the “Rabies in Borneo 2024” (RIB 2024) conference will be hosted from September 30 to October 1, 2024, at the Imperial Hotel Kuching. This conference, organized by Place Borneo Sdn Bhd and co-organized by the Department of Veterinary Services Sarawak, will gather experts, policymakers, and advocates to strategize and share insights on rabies prevention and control across Borneo.
Early registration for RIB 2024 is encouraged, with standard pricing of RM680 per delegate available until September 29, 2024. Students can participate at a reduced fee of RM100. The conference is supported by several governmental bodies, highlighting the collective commitment to eradicating rabies in Sarawak.