Medical Articles

Rabies

20.09.2026

Today, we’d like to talk about rabies, one of the diseases you should be aware of when living or traveling in the Philippines. In the Philippines, an estimated 200 to 300 people develop rabies each year.

Rabies is a zoonotic disease caused by the rabies virus. Once symptoms appear, the disease is almost always fatal, making it one of the most serious infectious diseases. The virus is mainly transmitted through the bites or scratches of infected animals, including dogs, bats, and cats. After an incubation period ranging from several weeks to several months, the virus travels through the nerves to the central nervous system, where it can cause a variety of neurological symptoms. These may include nighttime delirium, sudden aggressive behavior, excessive drooling caused by paralysis of the throat muscles, and an aversion to stimuli such as light, sound, and water. In severe cases, paralysis can spread throughout the body and lead to difficulty breathing.

Although there is no established treatment once symptoms have developed, rabies can be prevented if appropriate post-exposure treatment is started as soon as possible after being bitten or scratched by an animal suspected of carrying the virus. It is important to stop the virus before it reaches the brain, so the first dose of the post-exposure rabies vaccine should be given as soon as possible. Ideally, medical attention should be sought within 24 hours. Depending on the type of vaccine and the person’s previous vaccination history, multiple doses may be required. As an immediate first-aid measure, thoroughly wash the wound with soap and running water. The World Health Organization (WHO) recommends washing the wound with running water for 15 minutes and then disinfecting it with an appropriate antiseptic.

In the Philippines, you may encounter not only pet dogs but also many stray dogs. It is also important to be cautious around other animals, including monkeys, bats, and cats. Even if an animal appears friendly or accustomed to people, it may still carry the rabies virus, so avoid approaching or touching unfamiliar animals. If you are bitten or scratched by an animal that may carry rabies, wash the wound immediately and seek medical attention as soon as possible. Even if the wound appears minor, do not simply ignore it or try to assess the risk yourself. Make sure to see a medical professional within 24 hours and receive appropriate treatment.

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