A 13-year-old boy from Kampung Segedup, Kuching, has been confirmed as the first human rabies case in Sarawak this year, according to the Sarawak State Health Department.
In a statement shared via Facebook, the department revealed the boy began showing symptoms on May 21, including fever, vomiting, hallucinations, difficulty walking, and trouble swallowing water.
He first sought care at a private hospital before being transferred to Sarawak General Hospital (SGH), where clinical tests confirmed the rabies infection.
Was scratched by stray cat
Investigations revealed the boy had been scratched by a stray cat but did not seek medical attention.
He was also known to regularly feed and play with stray cats and had once handled the carcass of a cat killed in a road accident.
These behaviours, the department said, indicated high-risk exposure. He is currently undergoing treatment at SGH.
Rabies cases down but animal bites remain high
This marks the first confirmed rabies case in Sarawak for 2025 and reflects a decrease of two cases compared to the same period in 2024.
However, the department stressed that animal bite cases across the state remain alarmingly high.
From 2017 to the 20th Epidemiological Week of 2025 (May 11–17), Sarawak recorded 63,301 dog bites, 57,210 cat bites or scratches, and 1,832 bites involving other animals.
Public urged to avoid stray animals
The department reminded the public to avoid physical contact with stray animals, especially those of unknown vaccination status.
Individuals who are bitten or scratched are advised to wash the wound with soap and running water for at least 15 minutes and seek immediate treatment, including completing the rabies vaccination schedule.
The public is also encouraged to report sightings of stray animals to the Department of Veterinary Services (DVS) or local authorities, rather than taking matters into their own hands.
Pet owners must ensure their dogs and cats are vaccinated annually and are not left to roam freely,” the department stressed.
Parents were further urged to educate their children on the risks of rabies and the importance of avoiding stray animals.
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