ILOILO — Rabies remains a silent killer in Western Visayas, and the Department of Health (DOH) is warning the public that delay in seeking treatment after an animal bite could mean certain death.
Health officials stressed that rabies is nearly always fatal once symptoms emerge, making vigilance and immediate medical response non-negotiable.
Rabies is a lethal viral disease that invades the brain and spinal cord, most often transmitted through the bite or scratch of infected dogs.
“By following these detailed steps and guidelines, you can protect yourself and your pets from the risks associated with dog and cat bites, as well as the dangers of rabies. Hibaluon naton ang mga sintomas kag pamaagi paano malikawan ang paglapta sang sakit nga rabies,” DOH-6 said in a statement.
The agency advised that anyone bitten or scratched must wash the wound thoroughly with soap and running water for at least 15 minutes, apply antiseptic, and seek immediate medical help.
Those with severe bites may need rabies immunoglobulin, while tetanus vaccination is also recommended.
“Rabies can be fatal if not treated promptly, so it’s important to act quickly,” officials emphasized.
Early signs include fever and persistent headache, with possible pain or numbness near the bite area.
As the infection advances, victims may suffer hallucinations, muscle spasms, paralysis, and hydrophobia — a severe fear of water that makes swallowing painful. Once these symptoms set in, survival is almost impossible.
To stop the spread, DOH pushed for responsible pet ownership, including vaccination of pets at three months old with annual boosters, proper hygiene, and good nutrition.
Communities were also urged to step up awareness campaigns and encourage participation in pet vaccination drives.
Beyond individual responsibility, Iloilo’s Provincial Rabies Control Committee (PRCC) is intensifying its mission to declare the province rabies-free. Its Technical Working Group has begun on-site assessments in isolated island communities to ensure compliance and identify gaps.
Officials said that eradicating rabies would not only be a landmark public health success for Iloilo but also a testament to the power of collective action.
“A rabies-free province would show how teamwork can triumph against hardship in the quest for a healthier future for communities,” they added./PN
Before showing dogs as “besties” and warning the public against rabies threat, the government should do their homework and implement Kapon Programs like in Bacolod. https://www.panaynews.net/bacolod-allocates-p1-3m-for-libre-kapon-program-for-dogs-cats/