RB, Kotamobagu — Despite not being an outbreak, the number of bite cases from animals potentially carrying rabies in Bolaang Mongondow Raya (BMR) is quite high. In 2013, there were 219 bite cases. In 2014 the number increased to 347 bite cases. Up to 229 bite cases have already been reported in the first semester of 2015. The number of bite cases this year is predicted to increase.

Information from Health Services of North Sulawesi Province reveals 19 people have died from rabies since 2013. There were 9 fatalities in 2013, 5 fatalities in 2014 and 5 fatalities by June 2015. All deaths resulted from dog bites, however the number of fatalities contributed from BMR was not elaborated.

Head of the Communicable and Non-Communicable Disease Eradication Section of Kotamobagu Health Services, Vonny Kawuwung, said Kotamobagu is still free from rabies despite increasing number of bite cases in recent years. “There is an increase of bite cases [this year] compared to 2014 where there was 14 cases. However, none of the victims contracted rabies,” said Kawuwung.

“In response to dog bites and a possible threat of rabies, victims should immediately wash their wounds with detergents and running water. This is to prevent the virus from entering the tissue,”  he said.

Head of the Disease Mitigation and Prevention Section of Bolmong Health Services, Wiyono SST, said the government is providing vaccines for suspected rabies patients. “Funds for the vaccines are available through the Special Allocation Budget and aid from the province,” said Wiyono.

Bolmong Health Services is providing treatment to all rabies patients. “We provide services to all patients, general, BPJS and others. There is no charge for poor patients, all you have to do is go the nearest community health center with a copy of your citizenship card and family card,” said Wiyono.

Wiyono said the government has opened rabies cetners in Dumoga Raya and Lolak Subdistrict. “Because both areas are most at risk to rabies. Therefore, we provided rabies centers to people can be treated as soon as possible,” said Wiyono.

Mery Pasorong, SKM MKes,Head of the Surveilance and Reserach & Development Section of North Sulawesi Province Health Services explained that rabies in humans causes short term illness.  “Typically for 3 to 5 days. Rabies affects people of all age and gender. Natural immunity in humans is unknown and the incubation period can range from two weeks to two years,” said Pasorong.

The increase in rabies cases in North Sulawesi is caused by the high number of unvaccinated animal hosts, particularly dogs, cats and monkeys. “Therefore, if you have dogs, cats or monkeys, please vaccinate them as soon as possible. If there is rabies, it will be dangerous and fatal,” said Mery.

( Ed: Harry Tri Atmojo)