KUCHING: The Sarawak State Health Department (JKNS) has confirmed the state’s first human rabies case of the year.
The victim is a 13-year-old boy from Kampung Segedup, here.
The teenager began showing symptoms of the deadly virus on May 21, including fever, loss of appetite, vomiting, hallucinations, confusion, difficulty walking, and trouble swallowing water.
He initially sought treatment at a private hospital before being referred to Sarawak General Hospital, where clinical tests confirmed a rabies infection. He is currently receiving treatment there.
According to a statement from JKNS, investigations revealed the boy had been scratched by a stray cat but did not seek medical attention.
He was also known to frequently play with and feed stray cats and had once handled the carcass of a cat killed in a road accident, activities that significantly increased his risk of contracting the disease.
This is the first reported human rabies case in Sarawak for 2025, a decrease of two cases compared to the same period last year.
While most animal bites do not lead to rabies, JKNS reminded the public that bite and scratch incidents in Sarawak remain high.
From 2017 until Epidemiology Week 20 of 2025 (May 11–17), a total of 63,301 dog bites, 57,210 cat bites or scratches, and 1,832 other animal bite cases were recorded statewide.
The department strongly advised the public to remain vigilant and adopt preventive measures against rabies.
“Avoid approaching, feeding, or handling stray animals with unknown vaccination status. Never touch animal carcasses if the cause of death is uncertain,” the department said.
Anyone bitten, scratched, or exposed to the saliva of an animal should immediately wash the wound with soap and running water for at least 15 minutes and seek prompt medical attention. Completing the full course of anti-rabies vaccinations is vital.
The public is also urged to report stray animal sightings to the Department of Veterinary Services (DVS) or local authorities without attempting any physical contact.
Pet owners must ensure their animals are vaccinated annually against rabies and are not allowed to roam freely.
JKNS also called on parents to educate their children about the dangers of rabies and the importance of avoiding contact with stray animals.
