DOH urges caution vs. rabies despite fewer cases in early 2026

The Department of Health (DOH) on Saturday called for vigilance against rabies even though cases have dropped 65% in the first two months of 2026 compared to the same period last year.

The agency reported Saturday a total of 17 rabies cases from January 4 to February 21, significantly less than the 49 cases during the same monitoring period in 2025.

New cases involved roughly the same number of pets and stray animals, with 13 cases or 76% coming from unvaccinated animals.

"We shouldn't be complacent kasi may rabies pa rin, at ang rabies ay deadly. 'Pag ikaw nagka-rabies, once the symptoms start, almost 100% ang mortality. [This is] very important," advised DOH Secretary Teodoro Herbosa.

(We shouldn't be complacent because rabies cases are still being logged, and rabies is deadly. If you contract rabies, once the symptoms start, the mortality is almost 100%. [This is] very important.)

In view of Rabies Month this March, the DOH advised the public to observe the following:

• Ensure that your pets are annually vaccinated
• Regularly consult your veterinarian
• If bitten, immediately wash the wound with soap and clean water within 15 minutes and immediately consult a DOH-certified animal bite center for a vaccine
• Follow the prescribed timeline and doses for the post-exposure vaccine for rabies

Meanwhile, Herbosa shared that the PhilHealth Benefits Committee had approved the increased coverage for rabies post-exposure prophylaxis.

Currently, PhilHealth coverage for the enhanced animal bite package is up to P5,850.

The package covers post-exposure prophylaxis, local wound care, tetanus toxoid and anti-tetanus serum, antibiotics, and supplies. — VDV, GMA Integrated News