San Lazaro Hospital in Manila is treating up to 2,000 people daily at its Animal Bite and Treatment Center as concern over rabies intensifies across the country.
On the other hand, the Department of Health earlier reported 124 rabies cases nationwide from Jan. 1 to May 17, a 32-percent drop from the 183 recorded during the same period last year.
Despite the decline, health officials warned the threat remains serious, citing that all 426 reported rabies cases in 2024 were fatal.
“Even if the number of cases is low, rabies is devastating because once you’re bitten by a rabid animal and symptoms appear, the fatality rate is extremely high,” warned DOH Assistant Secretary Albert Domingo.
Central Luzon recorded the most cases so far this year with 21, followed by Zamboanga Peninsula with 15 and Calabarzon with 12.
The DOH is urging pet owners to vaccinate their animals annually and to seek immediate medical attention after any bite, scratch or exposure to saliva from dogs or cats.
Health experts stressed that even minor injuries, including broken skin licked by infected animals, can transmit the disease.
Post-exposure prophylaxis, available in public health centers, can prevent infection if administered quickly and completely.
A full vaccine course provides protection for five to ten years, though booster shots are advised if a new exposure happens more than three months after the last dose.
Under the Rabies Control Act, local governments are required to provide free anti-rabies vaccines for cats and dogs.
Private clinics charge between PHP100 and PHP400 for similar services.
The Pembo Veterinary & Computer Center in Makati offers anti-rabies shots, deworming, pet-tagging, spay and neuter procedures, vitamin injections, and health certificates.
In Barangay Rosario, the Pasig City Veterinary Office is conducting free pet microchipping and anti-rabies vaccination drives.
For human cases, the Philippine Health Insurance Corporation offers a PHP5,850 animal bite package covering vaccines, immune globulin, wound care, tetanus shots, and medical supplies.
PCO Undersecretary Claire Castro also said 33 Bagong Urgent Care and Ambulatory Service Centers (BUCAS) nationwide offer free rabies shots and pediatric vaccinations, and efforts are underway to make them operational 24/7.
