Rabies training strengthens response for bite victims in Apayao

Bite victims in Apayao can expect more timely and coordinated care as health workers underwent a two-day Rabies Reporting and Case Management Training on March 25–26 at Leonarda’s Homestay in Tumog, Luna.

The training focused on improving how cases are handled, from reporting to treatment, ensuring that patients receive proper care and follow-up.

Participants came from Animal Bite Treatment Centers (ABTCs) in the province, including hospitals and rural health units, with selected sessions delivered online by the Department of Health Center for Health Development – Cordillera (DOH CHD-CAR).

Topics included rabies case reporting, post-exposure prophylaxis (PEP), and legal provisions under Republic Act 9482, along with updates on local and regional data, reporting systems, FHSIS metadata, management of adverse reactions, and proper handling of animal specimens.

Data presented during the training showed that in 2025, Apayao recorded 7,375 rabies cases, with 5,766 cases or 78 percent from within the province and 1,609 cases or 22 percent from patients outside Apayao. Dogs accounted for 68 percent of bite incidents, while cats made up 32 percent, with other animals contributing less than one percent.

Speaking on behalf of Provincial Health Officer II Dr. Mark Joleen Calban, Dr. Jay Jay Roaquin (PHO I) urged continued coordination among health workers.

“Let us continue to work together to protect our communities and strengthen our commitment toward a rabies-free Apayao,” he said.