DOH reports 55 rabies deaths from Jan to Mar 2025, down from 90 in same period last year

A total of 426 individuals died from rabies in 2024 after being exposed to infected animals, according to the Department of Health (DOH), bringing the national death toll from 1,750 since 2020.

From January 1 to March 1, 2025, the DOH recorded a further decrease in rabies cases to 55 compared to 90 during the same period last year.

Health Secretary Ted Herbosa emphasized that rabies has a 100 percent fatality rate and urged pet owners to vaccinate their pets annually.

PhilHealth has increased its Animal Bite Treatment (ABT) package from PHP3,000 to PHP5,850 to cover essential post-exposure prophylaxis and immediate medical care for those bitten or scratched by animals.

The DOH noted that domestic pets accounted for nearly half of last year's fatal cases, with 41 percent of bites coming from unvaccinated animals and 56 percent from those with unknown vaccination status.

Among the most affected regions were Central Luzon (56 cases in 2024), CALABARZON (35 cases), and SOCCSKSARGEN (43 cases).

Pet owners are urged to vaccinate their pets annually, while the public is advised to seek immediate medical attention after animal bites to prevent rabies infection.