KUCHING: One new human rabies case has been reported in Sarawak, bringing the cumulative number of cases since the outbreak was declared in July 2017 to 91.
In a statement, the Sarawak State Health Department (JKNS) said the latest case involved a 44-year-old Malaysian man who died at Sarawak General Hospital (SGH) on Feb 25, 2026.
The department extended its condolences to the victim’s family.
Of the 91 human rabies cases reported since July 2017, 84 have resulted in death, reflecting a fatality rate of 93 per cent.
Only one case has been recorded so far this year.
According to JKNS, the victim was a general worker who lived alone in Kota Samarahan. He began experiencing symptoms on Feb 15, including difficulty walking, loss of appetite, pain in his right knee, weakness and dizziness.
He was taken to Sarawak Heart Centre on Feb 16 and was referred to SGH on the same day.
His condition deteriorated and he was placed on ventilatory support on Feb 22.
Investigations found that the man had no known history of dog or cat bites. However, he kept 15 dogs at home.
One of the dogs had died earlier this month and was buried by a neighbour, while the remaining 14 dogs have been isolated for monitoring.
He was also known to regularly feed stray dogs.
From Jan 1 to Feb 21 this year, a total of 3,323 animal bite cases were reported statewide, averaging 475 cases per week.
Of these, 2,043 cases (61.48 per cent) involved cat bites or scratches, 1,235 cases (37.17 per cent) were dog bites, and 45 cases (1.35 per cent) involved other animals.
A total of 2,280 cases (68.61 per cent) involved owned animals, while 1,043 cases (31.39 per cent) involved strays.
JKNS reminds the public that rabies can be transmitted through bites, scratches or exposure to saliva from infected mammals, particularly dogs and cats.
Those bitten or scratched are advised to immediately wash the wound or exposed area thoroughly with running water and soap for at least 15 minutes and seek treatment at the nearest government or private health facility.
The public is also urged not to feed or handle stray animals of unknown vaccination status and not to dispose off animal carcasses with unknown causes of death.
Such cases should be reported to the Department of Veterinary Services or local authorities for further action.
Pet owners are reminded to ensure their dogs and cats receive complete anti-rabies vaccination annually and not to allow them to roam unsupervised.
“Rabies can kill, but it is preventable if Post-Exposure Prophylaxis (PEP) treatment is administered promptly after exposure,” the statement stressed, calling on the public to play their part in rabies prevention and control to safeguard lives.
