KUCHING: Another round of free vaccination campaign to contain the rabies outbreak will be held at the Padawan community hall here tomorrow.
Unlike the previous vaccination campaign held during the weekend, tomorrow’s campaign is only meant for pet dogs for areas near Batu 10 in Padawan.
“Residents from the villages and residential areas in Batu 10, Padawan have been advised to only bring their pet dogs for the free jab of the anti-rabies vaccine,” said the State Disaster Management Committee secretariat in a statement today.
The secretariat said the state Veterinary Services Department will be giving free vaccinations to dogs around the areas after lab samples of animals from Siburan tested positive for the virus.
“A total of 447 dog bite cases were recorded since April 1, including 18 cases (reported) today, while 317 people had been given treatment,” he added.
Police mobile patrol vehicle (MPV) units were also deployed in the rabies-affected areas and within the 10km radius whereby the teams have been told to report to the local councils once strays were spotted.
The secretariat reminded the public to keep their pets within the compound of their houses and to stay away from strays.
Earlier today, the Health Ministry announced that a 52-year-old man is the fifth victim to have contracted the virus.
The man is currently warded at the Sarawak General Hospital.