10-year-old Kuching boy is 3rd rabies fatality this year

2026-03-21 - 07:11

The Sarawak health department said 87 people have died from rabies in the state since July 2017. PETALING JAYA: A 10-year-old Sarawakian boy in Kuching has died from rabies, becoming the third fatality from the disease so far this year. The Sarawak health department said the victim was bitten by a stray dog on Feb 11 but he cleaned the wound himself at home without seeking medical treatment. On March 11, the boy started experiencing loss of appetite, vomiting, stiff neck and hydrophobia, said the department. “The victim was brought to a clinic on March 13 before being referred to Sarawak General Hospital and being admitted to intensive care on the same day. “On March 14, lab results confirmed that he had contracted rabies. He died on March 18,” it said in a statement. The department said 87 people have died from rabies since an outbreak was declared in the state in July 2017. It said the main risk factor in the 10-year-old’s case was the delay in seeking treatment after being bitten by the stray dog. It reminded the public that rabies can spread through animal bites, scratches, or exposure to saliva of animals infected with rabies, including dogs and cats. “If bitten or scratched, the wound must be immediately cleaned with flowing water and soap for at least 15 minutes, followed by immediate treatment at a health facility.” The department also urged the public to avoid feeding stray animals and handling carcasses of animals that died of unknown causes. It also urged the public to ensure their pets are vaccinated against rabies annually and to prevent them from roaming about without supervision.