KUCHING: The Sarawak State Health Department has confirmed the first human rabies case in the state for this year was a 13-year-old boy from Kampung Segedup, Kuching.
This represents a decrease of two cases compared to the same period in 2024.
In a statement issued, the department said the teenager began showing symptoms on May 21, including fever, loss of appetite, vomiting, hallucinations, raving, difficulty walking, and trouble drinking water.
He initially sought treatment at a private hospital before being referred to Sarawak General Hospital, where clinical tests confirmed the rabies infection.
“Investigations revealed that the case had a history of being scratched by stray cats but did not seek medical attention. He was also known to frequently play with and feed stray cats, and had handled the carcass of a cat that died after being hit by a vehicle. These behaviours placed him at high risk of exposure to rabies,” the department stated.
The patient is currently receiving treatment at Sarawak General Hospital.
Despite a reduction in rabies cases, the department noted that animal bites remain a concern. Between 2017 and the 20th Epidemiology Week of 2025 (11 to 17 May), Sarawak recorded 63,301 dog bite cases, 57,210 cat bite or scratch cases, and 1,832 other animal bite incidents.
The public is advised to remain alert and avoid contact with stray animals. “Do not approach, feed or handle stray dogs and cats whose vaccination status is unknown. Avoid touching animal carcasses when the cause of death is unclear. If bitten, scratched, or exposed to animal saliva, wash the affected area with soap and water for at least 15 minutes and seek prompt medical treatment, including completing the anti-rabies vaccination,” the department advised.
Members of the public are also encouraged to report sightings of stray animals to the Department of Veterinary Services or local authorities.
The department reminded pet owners to ensure their animals are vaccinated against rabies annually and not allowed to roam freely. It also urged parents to educate their children on the dangers of rabies and to avoid contact with stray animals.
The Sarawak State Health Department reaffirmed its commitment to rabies prevention and called on all parties to support ongoing efforts to control the spread of the disease.
By Connie Chieng