TABUK CITY, Kalinga – In response to a new rabies case reported in Barangay Ipil this month, the city government has ramped up its efforts to combat the threat by launching an extensive anti-rabies vaccination campaign through a series of medical missions scheduled in all barangays in the city for the entire year.
The City Veterinary Services Office (CVSO) has completed vaccinations in barangays Ipil and Magsaysay and is now focusing on adjacent barangays, including San Juan, Appas, Bulanao Centro, and Bulanao Norte, in the first quarter of this year.
In addition to the scheduled missions, the CVSO medical team is available upon request from barangays and the services they provide include giving vitamins, deworming pills, medicines for anti-mange, and informational campaigns on rabies.
With two recorded rabies cases in the previous year, the CVSO has already vaccinated a significant number of animals, including 4,148 dogs and 263 cats in 2023.
Meanwhile, the CVSO emphasizes responsible pet ownership, urging owners to ensure their pets are up-to-date with rabies vaccinations, keep them indoors, and avoid contact with animals displaying signs of the disease.
Rabies, a deadly virus transmitted through the saliva of infected animals, can be prevented in humans through prompt medical care but may lead to death if untreated. By Ruth Cupang