KUCHING, Oct 28 — Sarawak has recorded its sixth human rabies fatality this year following the death of a 51-year-old man.
The Sarawak Health Department in a statement today said the man succumbed to the disease at a private health facility here recently.
“With this latest case, the total number of human rabies deaths in Sarawak this year has reached six, the same number recorded during the corresponding period in 2024,” read the statement.
According to the department, the victim began showing symptoms of fever and numbness in his hands on October 8.
He sought outpatient treatment at a private clinic the following day but developed worsening symptoms, including muscle and joint pain and a sore throat on October 11.
“By Oct 18, his condition had deteriorated, and he was admitted to a private hospital after experiencing weakness and dehydration. Laboratory tests later confirmed that he was positive for rabies,” said the department.
It added that although the victim had no record of any animal bite or scratch, he was found to have handled the carcass of his pet dog in June this year.
“He reportedly kept seven dogs, none of which were vaccinated against rabies and were allowed to roam freely. Some of the dogs had either died or gone missing for unknown reasons,” said the department.
The department also revealed that out of the six human rabies cases reported this year, four victims did not seek medical treatment after being bitten or scratched by animals—a decision it described as highly dangerous and potentially fatal.
“Rabies is almost 100 per cent fatal once symptoms appear, but it is also 100 per cent preventable with prompt medical care.”
It also advised the public not to handle animal carcasses and to contact the Department of Veterinary Services or local authorities for safe disposal.
At the same time, the department reminded that all pets should be vaccinated annually against rabies and not be allowed to roam freely.
Meanwhile, the department revealed that between January 1 and October 18 this year, Sarawak recorded 16,765 animal bite cases, averaging 399 per week.
Of these, 61.6 per cent (10,322 cases) involved cats, 37.2 per cent (6,238 cases) involved dogs, and 1.2 per cent (205 cases) involved other animals.
It also highlighted that with 67.5 per cent of the bites coming from pets, the risk of rabies infection often comes from animals within households rather than strays.
“Do not ignore bites or scratches from dogs and cats, including pets. Wounds should be washed with soap and water for at least 15 minutes before immediately seeking medical care for post-exposure prophylaxis.” — The Borneo Post
