Decena: Increase in cases anticipated in 2020

The Negros Occidental Provincial Veterinary Office recently revealed there were 10 recorded rabies-related fatalities across the province in 2019. Provincial veterinarian, Dr. Renante Decena, said the number is an increase from the prior year, where there were seven reported deaths.
However, he pointed out, the number of reported rabies cases for dogs decreased between 2018 and 2019, dropping from 33 to 21.
Last year, Himamaylan City reported the higher number of deaths at seven.
Meanwhile, Decena said they are anticipating an increase in cases this year since, in 2019, the office accomplished a 54 percent vaccination rate. In addition, the provincial official said they have already received 1,500 rabies vaccine vials and are targeting a 70 to 80 percent vaccination rate.
He added, they are still awaiting a separate supply from the Department of Health.
Decena also said one of the reasons there was an increase in fatalities was because those bitten did not seek immediate medical attention and suggested those bitten by rabid animals to visit the nearest animal bites center in order to receive treatment against rabies./DGB, WDJ