Rabies cases drop – DOH

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March 9, 2026 | 12:00am

MANILA, Philippines — Seventeen rabies cases have been recorded from Jan. 4 to Feb. 21, which is lower compared to the 49 cases logged in the same period last year, according to the Department of Health.

The DOH said unvaccinated animals caused 13 of the 17 cases.

“Coordinate with your veterinary or the local government regarding vaccination of pets,” the DOH said.

“If bitten by an animal, wash it thoroughly using soap and running water for 15 minutes and immediately consult a DOH-certified animal bite center for proper evaluation and treatment,” the department added.

Health Secretary Ted Herbosa urged pet owners to ensure that their animals are vaccinated.

March is Rabies Awareness Month.

“We should not be complacent. Rabies is deadly. If you have rabies, once the symptoms start, mortality is almost 100 percent,” Herbosa said.

Symptoms include fever, headache and general weakness, before progressing into anxiety, confusion, agitation, hallucinations and hydrophobia. — Christine Boton