BY: VALERIE DISMAYA
They say, “a dog is a man’s bestfriend.”
An estimated 200 to 300 Filipinos die from rabies each year, with most cases involving children bitten by unvaccinated dogs.
According to the Department of Health (DOH), rabies cases in the country exceeded 300 last year, up from 287 in 2023. Once symptoms appear—such as fear of water, headaches, and extreme anxiety—the disease is nearly always fatal.
To combat rabies, the Philippines observes Rabies Awareness Month every March, as mandated by Executive Order No. 84, signed by former President Joseph Estrada. The campaign promotes mass vaccination of dogs and cats, public awareness efforts, and free vaccines for bite victims.
Experts advise immediate action if bitten: wash the wound with soap and running water for 10 to 15 minutes and seek medical attention at an animal bite center. The World Health Organization warns that symptoms can take anywhere from 20 days to six months to develop, making timely vaccination critical.
Rabies prevention is a shared responsibility, not just for pet owners but for the entire community. Raising awareness and ensuring responsible pet ownership can help eliminate this deadly disease.
