10/03/2026
March is Rabies Awareness Month! 🐾💉
⭐️The Philippine Pediatric Society - Negros Occidental Chapter joins the nation in promoting a Rabies-Free Philippines. Rabies is a serious public health concern, but it is 100% preventable.
As guardians of our children's health, it’s vital to understand how to keep our little ones and our furry friends safe.
❓Quick Facts for about Rabies
* What is it? Rabies is a deadly virus that attacks the brain and spinal cord.
* How is it spread? It’s transmitted through the saliva of an infected animal, usually through bites, scratches, or even licks on open wounds or mucous membranes (eyes, nose, mouth).
* Who is at risk? Children are particularly vulnerable because they love to play with animals and may not always report minor scratches or licks.
🛡️ Prevention: The Best Defense
1. Vaccinate Your Pets: Ensure your dogs and cats are up-to-date with their anti-rabies shots.
2. Responsible Pet Ownership: Avoid letting your pets roam freely in the streets. Keep them within your property.
3. Educate Children: Teach kids to avoid approaching strange animals, even if they look friendly. Tell them to always inform an adult if they are nipped or scratched.
⚠️ What to do if bitten or scratched?
If an encounter happens, don't panic, but act fast:
1. Wash immediately: Thoroughly wash the wound with soap and running water for at least 15 minutes.
2. Seek Medical Help: Do NOT use "tandok" or traditional remedies. Go immediately to the nearest Animal Bite Treatment Center (ABTC) or consult your pediatrician for the proper Post-Exposure Prophylaxis (PEP) vaccines.
3. Observe the Animal: If it’s a pet, monitor it for 14 days. Do not kill or dispose of the animal.