The Department of Health (DOH) recorded 169 human rabies cases from January 2024 to May 2024.
DOH noted on Wednesday, June 5, that the Philippines observed a 13 percent increase in human rabies cases compared to the 150 incidents registered in the same period in 2023.
"Of the 169 reported cases, a total of 160 deaths have been reported, resulting in a case fatality rate of 94.67%. The status of the remaining 9 cases reported are still being verified," DOH stressed in a press release.DOH said that 156, or around 92 percent, have a history of dog bites, 10 cases, or around 6 percent, have a history of cat bites, and three cases have a history of bites from other animals.
The Health Department reminded pet owners to vaccinate their 'fur babies' against rabies, which will not only protects them but also 'significantly reduces the risk of transmission to humans'.
"Rabies is preventable, and vaccination is the most effective measure to protect animals and humans," DOH said in a press release.
"Given the high percentage of cases involving dogs and cats, it is imperative that pet owners ensure their animals are vaccinated against rabies at 3 months old and every year thereafter," the agency added.
This not only protects the animals but also significantly reduces the risk of transmission to humans.
DOH mentioned that Soccksargen recorded the highest number of cases, 21, followed by CALABARZON and Bicol, which both registred 18 cases.
