Suspected Rabies Deaths Rise in Negros Occidental Province
Negros Occidental is facing a concerning increase in cases, as two more individuals have reportedly died from suspected rabies this year. According to local health experts, the province has now recorded four suspected rabies deaths in 2025.
The third victim was a 21-year-old woman from Cauayan town. Meanwhile, the fourth was a 25-year-old woman residing in Bacolod City but originally from Kabankalan City. Health officials explained that the 25-year-old passed away on Sunday, May 25, at a government hospital here, two months after a dog bite incident in her hometown.
Details of the Recent Cases and Investigations
Investigations by a rabies coordinator in Kabankalan City revealed that the woman was bitten by a friend’s domesticated dog in March. The dog reportedly died within the same month. Notably, the victim had no history of rabies vaccination, unlike her friend who was also bitten and received proper vaccination.
Symptoms such as hydrophobia (fear of water) and fever appeared in the victim, signaling suspected rabies infection. Health officials are currently conducting contact tracing to identify and monitor those who may have been exposed to her.
Local authorities warn that a confirmed human rabies death is a serious public health concern.
Earlier Victims and Health Warnings
The first suspected rabies death this year was a four-year-old boy from Don Salvador Benedicto town who was bitten by a dog. The second was a 72-year-old man from Hinoba-an town with a dog bite history three years prior; he reportedly consumed dog meat and died in March.
Health officers emphasize the importance of promptly seeking medical attention after any animal bite or scratch. Vaccination remains the key preventive measure against rabies, which is otherwise almost always fatal once symptoms appear.
Ongoing Efforts and Public Health Measures
The City Health Office’s Environmental Sanitation Division is actively conducting contact tracing, especially since the latest victim lived in Bacolod City before her death. So far, no confirmed rabies fatalities have been recorded within the city this year.
Health authorities remind the public to report animal bites immediately and visit the nearest health center for vaccination. Neglecting these incidents can lead to tragic outcomes.
For more news and updates on suspected rabies deaths, visit Filipinokami.com.