IPB University Expert Reminds the Importance of Rabies Prevention Amid the Outbreak in Bangkok
The resurgence of rabies cases in Bangkok, Thailand, has become a serious concern, including for Indonesia. Responding to this situation, a virology and veterinary microbiology expert from IPB University, Dr drh Sri Murtini, reminded of the importance of vigilance, especially regarding the potential spread of this disease through animal movement.
“Human movement does not directly spread rabies, but the illegal movement of rabies-carrying animals has the potential to transmit the virus through bites to people or other animals,” she explained.
Indonesia is still considered a rabies-endemic country, although not in all regions. Currently, only eight provinces have rabies-free status, which are Riau Islands, Bangka Belitung, Papua, West Papua, DKI Jakarta, Central Java, Yogyakarta, and East Java.
Dr Sri Murtini emphasized that prevention is the main key to ensure rabies cases do not spread further. Efforts that can be made include routine vaccination of rabies-carrying animals (HPR) such as dogs, cats, and monkeys, both owned and stray animals.
“In addition to vaccination, controlling the population of unowned stray animals through sterilization is also important to suppress the potential spread of the virus,” she said.
Furthermore, she reminded Indonesian tourists planning to visit Thailand to increase their vigilance. According to her, direct contact with stray animals, especially stray dogs and cats, should be avoided to prevent the risk of transmission.
“Avoiding the risk of contracting rabies can be done by not contacting animals, especially stray dogs or cats, during travel,” she stated.
From the animal health perspective, long-term strategies are considered necessary and should be carried out in an integrated manner. Dr Sri Murtini stressed that controlling the animal population through sterilization, along with adopting stray animals, is an effective step. Public education also plays an important role so that every pet owner can be responsible for their pet’s health and vaccination.
“Rabies is a very dangerous zoonotic disease because it is almost always fatal once symptoms appear. Therefore, prevention efforts, animal population control, and public awareness are very important,” emphasized Dr Sri Murtini.
The World Health Organization (WHO) notes that more than 95 percent of human rabies cases are transmitted through dog bites. Every year, tens of thousands of people worldwide die from rabies, especially in Asian and African countries. This condition shows that the threat of rabies is still real, so vigilance should not be reduced.
Dr Sri Murtini added that the experience of various countries shows that collaboration between the government, the public, and animal welfare organizations can significantly reduce rabies cases.
“With mass vaccination, monitoring of animal movement, and public awareness, Indonesia can further suppress rabies cases and protect the health of both humans and animals,” she concluded. (Fj) (IAAS/KMR)
