Image: The Borneo Post

Wee spoke about the case during his Aug 8 Shall WEE Talk session. He said Kuching and nearby areas still faced rabies risk and called for cooperation with vaccination and control efforts. The next mass anti-rabies vaccination campaign was expected after the Kuching Food Festival ended on Aug 16, but the report did not provide a venue list or schedule.

What to do after a bite or scratch

Do not wait for symptoms or try to judge the animal by appearance. Wash the wound immediately with soap and running water for at least 15 minutes, apply an antiseptic if available, and seek medical assessment as soon as possible. Tell the clinic exactly where and when the contact happened.

Do not catch, hit or transport a suspected animal yourself. Record its location and appearance from a safe distance and notify the relevant local authority or veterinary service. Pet owners should keep rabies vaccination current and avoid allowing dogs or cats to roam.

This article records a case reported in early August. It does not mean every stray animal around Mile 9 is infected, and it should not replace current outbreak notices or medical advice.

Reported area: Mile 9, Jalan Penrissen, Kuching
Confirmed detail: One stray dog tested positive

Sources: The Borneo Post · WHO rabies guidance · Department of Veterinary Services Sarawak