Malaysia Free Of Rabies - Health Minister

KUALA LUMPUR, Nov 4 (Bernama) -- Malaysia has been free of rabies since 1999 according to records up to June this year, the Dewan Rakyat (Malaysia's House of Representatives) was told Wednesday. Deputy Health Minister Dr Hilmi Yahaya said the last incidents involving humans and animals occurred in 1998 and 1999 respectively. "Besides Singapore and Brunei, neighbouring countries in Southeast Asia do report cases of rabies from time to time," he said in reply to Dr Lee Boon Chye (PKR-Gopeng). Nevertheless, Dr Hilmi said, the ministry had already ensured that the anti-rabies vaccine was readily available nationwide, particularly in the more vulnerable states Perlis, Kedah and Penang. Fourteen government hospitals in the three states have stocked up on anti-rabies vaccine and rabies immunoglobin, with treatment for each patient to cost US$351 (RM1,500), he added. He also said the ministry and state health department had taken the necessary control and prevention action in adherence to the guidelines such as patient management, more stringent monitoring of cases, and health awareness promotions. -- BERNAMA