MANILA, Philippines - As part of the nationwide observance of March as Rabies Awareness Month, the Makati City government through the Makati Veterinary Services Office (MVSO) has started giving free anti-rabies vaccination in the city’s barangays until March 22.
MVSO chief Vivien Manalastas urged pet owners in the city to do their part and bring their pets for vaccination on the scheduled dates in the barangays, adding that afternoon sessions have been added to accommodate working pet owners.
“For this year’s free vaccination drive, we have scheduled morning and afternoon sessions to give pet owners who have day jobs to bring their pets for vaccination in the afternoon or after work. We urge pet owners to make time for this very important task aimed at protecting their families from a deadly disease, especially with the onset of summer, during which pets are more prone to rabies infection,†Manalastas said.
Pet owners can bring their pets to the following barangays from 7a.m. to 11a.m.: Valenzuela, March 14; San Isidro, March 15; Olympia, March 18; and Poblacion, March 21. In the afternoon from 3 p.m. to 6 p.m., the activity will be held in the following barangays: Southside, March 14; South Cembo, March 15; East Rembo, March 18; West Rembo, March 19; Pembo, March 20; and Bangkal, March 22.
Pet owners may contact their respective barangays or the city Veterinary Office at telephone numbers 889-79-49 and 757-14-13.
Based on the records of the Makati Health Department, the city has recorded zero deaths due to rabies for three straight years from 2010 to 2012. The city health department attributes this to the prompt post exposure examination and treatment of patients.
Meanwhile, the number of animal bite cases rose from 2,668 in 2011 to 3,272 in 2012.
March has been declared Rabies Awareness Month, pursuant to Republic Act No. 9482 signed on May 25, 2007, to build public awareness on the prevention and control of rabies through education and vaccination. - Mike Frialde