A rabies-free IN by 2015

By Leilanie G. Adriano

Staff Reporter

The Provincial Veterinary (PVET) Office is aiming for a zero rabies case by 2015.

To do this, the Ilocos Norte government under the administration of Ilocos Norte Governor Ma. Imelda R. Marcos has partnered with the Global Alliance for Rabies Control (GARC) to institute public awareness and strengthen programs on information, education and communication campaign.

Dr. Loida Valenzuela, provincial veterinarian said the rabies program shall be integrated into the elementary curriculum and the Responsible Pet Ownership (RPO) program shall be promoted.

In coordination with the Department of Agriculture and the Department of Health, the PVET shall also intensify the promotion of dog vaccination, dog population control, as well as the control of stray animals.

In accordance with RA 9482 or the so-called “The Rabies Act of 2007”, rabies control ordinance approved by the Sangguniang Panlalawigan of Ilocos Norte shall also be strictly implemented. In the same manner, the public shall be informed on the proper management of animal bites and/or rabies exposures.

With the upcoming celebration of rabies awareness month this March, Valenzuela said Ilocos Norte is lucky to have been chosen as one of the two provinces in the entire country to implement GARC’s “Communities Against Rabies Exposure” in partnership with the DepEd. The other province is Bohol.

In 2010, 257 rabies cases and 266,200 animal bites or rabies exposures were reported, according to the Department of Health website. Some of these came from Ilocos Norte.