Human Rabies Vaccine Shortage in Philippines

The Department of Health has informed provincial health officers, chiefs of hospitals, health centres and animal bite centres that there is a nationwide shortage of human rabies vaccine. Human rabies vaccine is used not only for pre-bite immunization but also for early treatment after animal bites. Two deaths have been recorded among 2,700 reported animal bites since January this year.

建議

Rabies is almost universally fatal if preventive measures are not taken immediately after exposure to the bite of a possibly rabid animal. Rabies can be effectively prevented while travelling by avoiding direct contact with animals, especially by not touching or feeding any animals, including dogs and cats, and by closely supervising children around all animals.

There is an effective rabies vaccine. Those who should consider a rabies vaccination include: veterinarians, long-term travellers and persons living in areas with a high risk of exposure; wildlife professionals, researchers, or adventure travellers who may be involved in activities that bring them into direct contact with bats, dogs, and other mammals.

If bitten while travelling, seek medical attention at once. After exposure, there are specific measures (e.g., use of rabies antibodies and vaccine) that must be followed to reduce the likelihood of clinical illness and death.