The Department of Health (DOH) reported Wednesday that it has logged 159 rabies cases this year.

According to the DOH, this is a 28% decrease compared to the same period last year, with 220.

Dogs were the most common animal involved, with almost equal distribution between domestic and stray.

Most of these animals have an unknown vaccination or unvaccinated history, the agency noted.

Dr. Jem Mariel Langas, National Program Manager for Rabies, said the DOH will further strengthen and improve the implementation of the National Rabies Program in the country.

Langas stressed that regular reviews are essential for achieving national and local targets, including the elimination of human deaths from dog-mediated rabies. 

She also urged all regional coordinators to register all animal bite treatment centers and animal bite centers in  the National Rabies Information System (NaRIS) to ensure prompt reporting of cases at all levels. 

Regional Director Paula Paz M. Sydiongco stated that rabies elimination is a collective effort that requires coordinated action from various stakeholders, including the Department of Agriculture-Bureau of Animal Industry, Department of the Interior and Local Government, Department of Education, as well as individuals and communities.  

Paz also encouraged barangay officials to ensure there are no stray dogs in their respective areas. 

Meanwhile, the Philippine Health Insurance Corp. (PhilHealth) provided financial support to the victims of rabies through an Animal Bite Treatment package which covers the costs associated with post-exposure prophylaxis for rabies following an animal bite worth P5,850.

The package includes rabies vaccine, rabies immune globulin, local wound care, tetanus toxoid, antibiotics, and necessary medical supplies.

Rabies can contracted through a bite, scratch, or the saliva of an animal with rabies if its licks a person's wound, eyes, nose, or mouth, with the first symptoms of rabies often appearing two to three months after exposure.

However, they can appear within a few weeks or take up to a year, depending on the amount of virus that has entered the patient's body as well as on which part of the body the virus has entered, according to Health Chief Ted Herbosa.

"In humans, symptoms of rabies are fever, weakness, and swelling of the wound. When it worsens, it can cause fear of water and air, confusion, and paralysis," the Health chief said.

"As the virus spreads, it causes rapid swelling of the brain and spinal cord, leading to certain death," Herbosa added.

To prevent rabies, Herbosa called on the public to ensure that their pets are vaccinated annually to prevent infection caused by rabies, contact their veterinarian or local government to vaccinate pets, and avoid contact with unknown animals especially if they are aggressive.

In case of a bite or scratch, Herbosa instructed to immediately wash the wound with soap and running water, and immediately consult the nearest health center or Animal Bite and Treatment Center.