BY BENZ FELIX P. SEDUCO, Intern, University of Antique
ILOILO City – Amid the rising number of rabies cases in Western Visayas, the Department of Health (DOH) is leading the observance of Rabies Awareness Month.
Carrying the theme “Rabies-Free na Pusa’t Aso, Kaligtasan ng Pamilyang Pilipino”, the campaign aims to intensify public awareness on rabies prevention and promote responsible pet ownership.
The month-long observance is part of the agency’s efforts to create rabies-free communities across the region.
Yesterday’s kick-off event at DOH Region 6’s office in Santa Barbara, Iloilo featured various activities such as the “Paw-shionable Dog Show,” a fashion parade for pets, and “Family is Fur-ever,” a photo contest highlighting the bond between pets and their owners.
DOH-6 emphasized that vaccination of cats and dogs remains the most effective way to prevent the spread of rabies.
The agency also reiterated the crucial roles of pet owners, local government units, veterinary clinics, and animal welfare groups in strengthening rabies control and prevention.
The Rabies Awareness Month observance in Western Visayas is part of a broader national effort to eliminate rabies, a fatal but preventable disease, through coordinated community action and sustained public education./PN
