Babae, namatay nitong Linggo dahil sa rabies; nakagat ng aso noon pang Marso | Unang Balita

Summary

Rabies is a deadly but preventable virus that can be transmitted through the bite or scratch of an infected animal. A recent case tragically highlights the danger, where a 25-year-old woman died from rabies after being bitten by a dog, despite not receiving the vaccine. Health experts stress the importance of immediate vaccination after animal bites, with free vaccines available in various health centers. The virus has a long incubation period, so timely treatment is critical. Rabies is preventable, and quick action can save lives—don't ignore animal bites or scratches.

Takeaways

• 😀 Rabies is a deadly virus that can be prevented with vaccination if treated immediately after an animal bite or scratch.
• 😀 Nicole, a 25-year-old woman, passed away from rabies after being bitten by a dog in March, but her symptoms only appeared in May.
• 😀 Rabies is transmitted through the bite or scratch of infected animals, and it attacks the central nervous system.
• 😀 Rabies has an incubation period of up to a year, during which symptoms may not appear, making it crucial not to ignore animal bites.
• 😀 Nicole’s case is the second documented rabies death within a week, following a similar case of a factory worker in Laguna.
• 😀 Rabies symptoms include constant movement of the body, difficulty breathing, and severe anxiety as seen in Nicole’s condition.
• 😀 People who have direct contact with rabies victims, like Nicole’s brother, should receive the anti-rabies vaccine as a precaution.
• 😀 In Quezon City, the rabies vaccine is free for legitimate residents, but others must pay for the first dose, with subsequent doses available at their LGU.
• 😀 The Department of Health (DOH) emphasizes the importance of seeking immediate medical attention after an animal bite, especially if the wounds are deep.
• 😀 Health facilities like RITM in Muntinlupa and San Lazaro Hospital in Manila offer free rabies vaccines, but supplies may run out and need replenishment from the DOH.
• 😀 PhilHealth offers an animal bite treatment package covering rabies vaccine, tetanus treatment, and local wound care, valued at PH5,850.

Q & A

Why is it important to get vaccinated against rabies immediately after an animal bite or scratch?

Rabies is a deadly virus that attacks the central nervous system. It can be prevented if treated early with the rabies vaccine, which is why immediate vaccination is crucial after any animal bite or scratch.

What was the cause of 25-year-old Nicole's death?

Nicole died from rabies, which she contracted after being bitten by a dog. Despite showing no symptoms immediately after the bite, the virus attacked her brain months later, leading to her death.

How long can the rabies incubation period last before symptoms appear?

The incubation period for rabies can last up to a year, meaning the virus may be in the body without showing symptoms for a significant amount of time.

What should someone do immediately after being bitten by an animal?

After being bitten, you should go to the nearest health facility immediately, especially if the wound is deep. You may not be given the vaccine right away, but you will receive instructions on the next steps.

Where can residents in Quezon City get a free rabies vaccine?

Residents of Quezon City can get a free rabies vaccine at designated local health facilities. However, non-residents will only receive the first dose for free.

How many rabies cases were recorded in the Philippines in 2024 and the first few months of 2025?

In 2024, there were 426 cases of rabies recorded, and from January to March 2025, 55 cases were reported.

What happened to Nicole's brother after he had direct contact with her while she was sick with rabies?

Nicole's brother, who had direct contact with her, was vaccinated against rabies as a precautionary measure to prevent the virus from spreading to him.

Which hospitals in the Philippines have stocks of the rabies vaccine?

Hospitals like the Amang Rodriguez Hospital in Marikina, San Lazaro Hospital in Manila, and others have stocks of the rabies vaccine. If necessary, they can request additional supplies from the Department of Health (DOH).

How much does the PhilHealth animal bite treatment package cost and what does it cover?

The PhilHealth animal bite treatment package costs PHP 5,850 and covers the rabies vaccine, tetanus treatment, and wound care for animal bites.

What steps should someone take while waiting to be vaccinated after an animal bite?

While waiting to be vaccinated, individuals should follow any instructions provided by health authorities, including possible wound care, and make sure they are in line for the vaccine as soon as it's available.