According to a report from the Department of Preventive Medicine, from the beginning of the year until now, the whole country has had more than 80 deaths due to rabies, of which the places with the highest number of deaths are Binh Thuan (10 cases), Dak Lak (10 cases). 7 cases). ), Nghe An (7 cases) and Gia Lai (6 cases).
Rabies is caused by a rabies virus transmitted from animals to humans, currently circulating in many countries around the world.
From 2017 to 2021, Vietnam recorded an average of about 70 deaths per year.
The Department of Preventive Medicine emphasized that rabies is an infectious disease with a mortality rate of nearly 100% when symptoms appear.
5 important recommendations to prevent rabies
To protect yourself and the community from the risk of rabies, the Department of Preventive Health recommends that people take the following precautions:
1. Rabies vaccination for dogs and cats:
Make sure all dogs and cats are fully vaccinated and re-vaccinated as recommended by the veterinary industry.
2. Do not come into dangerous contact with dogs and cats:
Do not play with or tease dogs and cats, especially young children.
3. Treat dog and cat bites properly:
Immediately wash the wound with soap under running water for 15 minutes, then disinfect with 70% alcohol or antiseptic.
4. Absolutely do not bandage the wound or knead the wound.
Vaccinate against rabies and/or anti-rabies serum immediately after being bitten by a dog or cat as directed by medical staff.
5. Restrictions on the sale and slaughter of dogs and cats:
Minimize exposure to rabies virus through dog and cat trade and slaughter activities.
6. Go to a medical facility as soon as there is a risk:
If you are bitten by a dog or cat or suspect you have been exposed to the rabies virus, immediately contact the nearest medical facility for timely advice, treatment and vaccination.
The Institute of Preventive Medicine points out that fighting rabies not only depends on the health sector but also requires the close cooperation of the people.
