THE ANIMAL Bite and Treatment Centers (ABTCs) recorded zero rabies-related deaths for the first quarter of 2024.
Dr. Annaliza Malubay, ABTC Medical Officer IV, said the accomplishment was mainly attributed to the intensification of the information drive among the public through their anti-rabies vaccination centers.
“There should be no mortalities caused by rabies because our vaccines are always available and effective,” Malubay said.
Based on their data, ABTC Magallanes recorded four deaths in 2023, a 76% decrease from the 22 recorded deaths in 2022.
Malubay noted the four deaths were mostly caused by dogs unable to complete their vaccination. Some of them were not able to complete their three doses as well.
She continually urged the public to avail of the anti-rabies vaccine as it’s free of charge and encouraged pet owners to vaccinate their pets for rabies prevention.
The CHO is also committed to its goal of zero mortality caused by rabies, in line with the World Health Organization’s goal of zero human rabies deaths by 2023.
