Introduction | Rabies in the Philippines | Rabies in Man | Rabies in Animals | Signs of Canine Rabies

Introduction

Rabies remains a public health problem in the Philippines. Approximately 300 to 600 Filipinos die of rabies every year. Our country ranked third worldwide in rabies incidence in 2000.

Dog remains the principal reservoir of rabies in the country. Thus, the most cost effective measure against rabies is through vaccination of dogs; education of dog owners and the public on responsible pet ownership should include restrictions of dogs within homes or properties.

Stakeholders should push for the creation of local ordinances on dog control measures, dog vaccination, and the practice of responsible pet ownership.

This pamphlet is being produced to give the public basic information about rabies.

Rabies in the Philippines

Rabies in Man

A highly fatal disease caused by a virus from the saliva of an infected animal and is characterized by hydrophobia, muscle spasm and paralysis.

The rabies virus is transmitted to man through bite by an infected animal, usually the dog, or through contamination with virus-laden saliva on breaks in the skin and of the eyes, lips, and mouth.

When Bitten by a Dog

• Wash the wound immediately with soap and water
• Consult a physician immediately or call the nearest Animal Bite Treatment Center

Rabies in Animals

Rabies is a dangerous disease of animals transmissible to humans through bites of infected animals

Rabies is transmitted to other animals through contact with virus-laden saliva by biting or licking of open wounds by a rabid animal.

In the Philippines, the most common source of infection are the dogs.

Signs of Canine Rabies

There are two forms of rabies:

1. FURIOUS TYPE

1. Change from friendly disposition into wild vicious behavior;
2. Whining - as if in pain;
3. Foaming of the mouth;
4. If on leash, bites objects within its reach, if caged, bites even the cage;
5. Difficulty in eating and drinking;
6. Restlessness;
7. Runs aimlessly; bite anyone or anything on its path;
8. Snaps at imaginary objects.

2. DUMB TYPE - Complete opposite of Furious Type

1. Becomes lethargic and depressed. Hides in dark, quiet places, sluggish or sleepy
2. Refuses to eat
3. Appears to be staring at a distant object (far-away look)
4. The lower jaw drops, the tongue hangs, and the dog salivates continuously
5. Difficulty in swallowing/drinking
6. Lameness
7. Difficulty in breathing
8. Dies suddenly without any signs

Management of the Biting Dog

• Restrain the dog with a leash or confine in a cage.
• Observe the dog for 14 days for any signs of rabies or submit the dog to a licensed veterinarian for observation.
• Do not kill the dog. It is better to wait for the dog to die naturally.
• If the dog dies within 14 days, call a veterinarian for proper submission of sample to the nearest diagnostic laboratory.

Responsible Pet Ownership Means

• Vaccinating pet dogs against rabies at 3 months of age and every year thereafter
• Providing clean, comfortable and proper shelter
• Providing enough exercise
• Providing enough care and proper nutrition
• Keeping them within our own backyard, where they are free from contact with infected dogs. Keeping them on leash when we take them for walks or daily exercise
• Bringing the pet for regular health consultation with the veterinarian