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Tondano – A total of 437 were bitten by suspected rabid animals in Minahasa. Head of Minahasa Health Services, dr. Yuliana Kaunang said 437 people were bitten between January and June 2015. Two bite victims developed rabies and eventually died.

“Data from the last six months indicate variation in the number of bite cases. The highest was in April with 91 incidences,” said Kaunang yesterday (23/7). The two fatal cases were a result of negligence. “Victims did not seek post-exposure treatment after being bitten by the animals,” she said.

Kaunang urges the public to take immediate action in any bite case involving potentially rabid animals, such as dogs and monkeys. “The first step is to wash the wound with running water and soap for 15 minutes. Afterwards, if the animal involved in the incident died or was lost, immediately report to the local Community Health Center to obtain post-exposure treatment,” said Kaunang.

With these precautions, rabies can be prevented in bite victims. The condition will worsen as the victim progresses through the incubation period. “So do not delay, immediately report to the local Community Health Center for treatment and observation. The local CHC will coordinate with a CHC that has a rabies center to obtain human rabies vaccines for post-exposure treatment,” said Kaunang.

Meanwhile, a number of citizens admit they still do not know about the dangers of rabies. “We know there is rabies. But most of us don’t know how it’s transmitted and why it’s dangerous,” said Riko Wulur, a citizen of Tondano who likes to have dogs.

“Moreover, many people like dogs. Therefore we need regular socialization so we know how to prevent and manage bite incidences,” said Wulur. (fgn/rof)

Source: jpnn.com