Sen Bong Go commends PhilHealth's ABT package increase from P3,000 to P5,850

Senator Bong Go has praised PhilHealth's expanded Animal Bite Treatment (ABT) package, which increases coverage from P3,000 to P5,850.

Go highlighted the importance of proper medical care following animal bites, especially for those in rural and underserved areas, noting that more than 1 million cases are reported annually.

PhilHealth's move comes amid concerns over rising incidents of dog bites and other animal-related injuries, with the Department of Health reporting 426 rabies-related deaths in 2024.

The expanded ABT package includes vital post-exposure prophylaxis such as rabies vaccine, immune globulin for immediate protection, wound care, tetanus toxoid, anti-tetanus serum, and antibiotics.

PhilHealth President Edwin M. Mercado urged members to seek immediate medical attention if bitten or scratched by any animal, emphasizing the importance of timely vaccination in preventing this highly fatal disease.