Head of North Toraja Health Services, dr. Hendrik Kalatimang, MARS revealed there were 589 rabies-associated dog bite cases from January to June 2015.

“Currently we have used 503 doses of human rabies vaccine and only have 2 cases of human fatality due to rabies in North Toraja,” said Hendrik Kalatimang in a Zoonotic infectious disease control coordination meeting on Saturday (04/07) in North Toraja District Office.

Meanwhile for dengue fever, said Hendrik, there were 34 cases and 15 mosquito fogging operations in Rantepao, Tallunglipu, Tondon, Tikala and Kesu subdistrict.

“Thankfully, no fatality resulted [from dengue fever],” said Hendrik Kalatimang.

Head of Livestock Services Palala Pongsapan said 4,000 doses of vaccines have been given to animals in North Toraja. The office still has 7,000 doses to achieve a target of 11,500 animals vaccinated in 2015.

“We aim for 70% coverage for rabies control. Each year the population increases. Currently the dog and cat population in North Toraja is 60,000 animals,” said Palala Pongsapan. (Author: Basry – Public Relation Staff of North Toraja | Editor: Jakfar Al Parani)

Source: Kabar Toraja