Responsible pet ownership key to tackling rabies, say experts

 

(From left) Boehringer Ingelheim’s representatives Dr Tan Do Yew and Dr Jerlyn K Sponseller, Global Alliance for Rabies Control director of programmes Terence Scott, and Universiti Putra Malaysia head of veterinary pathology and microbiology Dr Farina Mustaffa Kamal.

KUCHING: A rabies-free Southeast Asia hinges on robust pet vaccination, heightened public awareness, and surveillance, say experts.

Boehringer Ingelheim regional technical manager for companion animals for Asean, South Korea, Australia and New Zealand Dr Tan Do Yew said it was important for pet owners to vaccinate their pets and seek post-exposure prophylaxis (PEP) to mitigate the risk of rabies transmission.

“Vaccinating your pets such as cats and dogs is the best way to prevent rabies in people. It is cost-effective and stops the spread, but it also helps in protecting you and your community,” he said at a rabies symposium hosted by Boehringer Ingelheim at the Federation of Asian Veterinary Associations Congress 2023.

Dog vaccination is mandatory under Section 40 of the Veterinary Public Health Ordinance 1999, and any owner or person in charge of a dog who fails to comply could be fined up to RM1,000.

Additionally, anti-rabies vaccinations have been made compulsory for dogs in the buffer zones of Sarawak and Sabah, serving as a preventive measure against rabies. However, in other states, these vaccinations remain optional.

Tan said the prevalence of rabies had a significant impact on the community.

“In our community, the rise of rabies is a serious concern affecting us all. It’s time for us to come together, raise awareness, and take action. By working as one, we can build a safer and healthier future for everyone,” he said.

A study revealed that rabies, mainly transmitted by dogs, causes significant global harm. It results in over 1.8 million disability-adjusted life years annually, with associated costs reaching a staggering RM25.67 billion (US$5.5 billion). These costs cover treatments for bitten individuals, animal testing, dog vaccination efforts, and losses in livestock, among others.

In Asia, the expense of treating people with PEP is alarmingly high, estimated at up to RM7 billion (US$1.5 billion) each year.

In August 2023, the Sarawak health department revealed a 90% surge in rabies cases from Jan 1 to Aug 7 in the state compared to the same period last year, when seven cases were reported.

Tan said Boehringer Ingelheim, in partnership with the Global Alliance for Rabies Control (GARC), had vaccinated thousands of dogs across Malaysia, Indonesia, Kenya, the Philippines, South Africa, Thailand, and Vietnam.

On the suggestion of dog culling to mitigate rabies transmission, GARC director of programmes Terence Scott said such an approach did not effectively address the complex issues associated with the viral disease.

“There is evidence that mass, indiscriminate killing of dogs is not effective in controlling the transmission of rabies. In fact, it can worsen the issue as vaccinated animals may be inadvertently culled, reducing the herd immunity in the population,” he said.

Scott added that dog rabies elimination was possible, and could be done with the right support, political will, and ongoing government commitment.

Dr Jerlyn K Sponseller of Boehringer Ingelheim said eliminating rabies required government support and involvement at the highest level.

“While we are actively engaged in community and grassroots efforts, it is paramount to raise awareness at a higher level.

“Working with the highest levels of government would significantly reduce and eventually eliminate rabies in humans,” she said.

Veterinary expert Dr Farina Mustaffa Kamal of Universiti Putra Malaysia called for sustained government support to ensure the long-term viability of rabies prevention programmes.

“Government backing and increased awareness about animal vaccination play pivotal roles in eradicating the threat of rabies to animals and humans.

“Investing in rabies control will strengthen our healthcare system, improve access to care and contribute to sustainable development.

“It is time for a unified approach, drawing on the strengths of various societal components, to synchronise our efforts,” she said.

“For the public, it is important to always keep in mind that if you’ve been bitten, scratched, or possibly exposed to the saliva of an animal suspected of infection, it is essential to promptly wash the affected area with soap and running water for at least 15 minutes and seek immediate medical attention.” - FMT