Dabawenyos are reminded that rabies is fatal and incurable once symptoms appear, but can be prevented through responsible pet ownership and vaccination.
Dr. Yleona Ysabel T. Camelotes, Head of the City Health Office’s (CHO) Animal Bite Treatment Center (ABTC), said during the ISpeak Media Forum on Thursday, that information drives on rabies awareness and prevention are intensified in time for the Rabies Awareness Month celebration.
Rabies is a vaccine-preventable, zoonotic viral disease affecting the central nervous system. It is transmitted through bites, scratches, or direct contact with the mucus membrane, such as the eyes, mouth, or open wounds. Once symptoms appear, it is fatal.
In 2025, the city recorded a total of 6 rabies cases, all of whom were unvaccinated adult males.
“These rabies cases po, usually, wala sila nagpavaccinate (Usually, these rabies cases are of victims who are unvaccinated),” Camelotes said.
She urged individuals bitten by animals to immediately seek medical assistance and get vaccinated to prevent the spread of the disease.
“We should not be complacent because even small bites can transmit the virus,” she said.
Pre-exposure prophylaxis and Post-exposure prophylaxis are available at the city’s ABTCs located at their main office in City Hall Annex, and in ABTC satellite clinics in Paquibato, Marilog, Calinan, Tugbok, Toril, Bunawan, Sasa, and Tibungco.
In 2025, a total of 48,430 individuals received pre-exposure or post-exposure prophylaxis from the CHO’s ABTCs.
Camelotes also highlighted the importance of consultation with doctors prior to the vaccination to identify which category the patients fall in, as well as the vaccine they need.
She added that if an individual is bitten by a cat or a dog, it is essential to wash the wound with running water and detergent (if available) or any antibacterial soap for 10–15 minutes, then apply antiseptics like povidone iodine (Betadine) or alcohol as first aid.
The CHO and the City Veterinarian’s Office (CVO) continue to amplify their campaign for responsible pet ownership as part of their anti-rabies initiatives. Dabawenyos are enjoined in the city’s thrust towards a Rabies-free Davao City. CIO
