THE Animal Bite Treatment Center (ABTC) has received around 4,000 vials of anti-rabies vaccine for 2025, enough to treat approximately 1,000 patients.
Dr. Yleona Ysabel T. Camelotes, ABTC district health physician, said the center continues to provide free vaccines while supplies last. The Department of Health (DOH) also provides additional vials as needed.
However, she noted that vaccine stocks often run out by midyear, partly due to increased animal aggression during the summer months, which leads to more bite cases.
Camelotes explained that patients typically need three doses of the vaccine, depending on the prescribed treatment.
“Syempre hindi lang kasi one-time pupunta si patient we have three doses tapos depende pa talaga sa vaccines kung ano bibigay (Patients don’t just visit once; they need multiple doses depending on the type of vaccine given),” she said during the ISpeak media forum, on Thursday morning, February 13, 2025, at the DCIPC Building.
In 2024, ABTC treated 48,483 patients, averaging over 100 new cases and around 200 follow-ups daily. Among those treated, 30,000 were aged 15 and older, while 18,483 were 15 and below.
Davao City recorded three rabies-related deaths in 2024. The victims, all male, were aged 45, 32, and 56
Patients seeking treatment at ABTC can either avail of the vaccine through the Lingap assistance program or pay out of pocket.
The center assesses cases based on severity, with most falling under category 3, which requires an additional dose of immunoglobulin (HRIG)—a costly but life-saving treatment. Category 1 cases do not require vaccination and only need exposure prophylaxis, while category 2 cases are treated depending on the type of wound.
To access ABTC’s services, patients must present a valid ID. For category 3 cases, a PhilHealth card is required. Minors must bring a school ID or birth certificate, and an additional amount for the injection fee.
Camelotes also warned against the use of traditional remedies such as "tandok" or garlic application on wounds, stressing that these methods do not prevent rabies. She urged the public to seek immediate medical attention, reinforcing ABTC’s ongoing campaign against misinformation and unsafe practices.
With rabies cases remaining a serious health concern, ABTC continues to operate across Davao City, with centers in Magallanes, Toril, Tugbok, Marilog, Calinan, Sasa, Paquibato, Cabantian, and the Southern Philippines Medical Center (SPMC). RGP
