“Understanding Rabies and its Endemic Status in Indonesia”

Rabies is a virus that is usually spread by the bite or scratch of an animal infected with an RNA virus from the rhabdovirus family. For humans who contract rabies, bites from unvaccinated dogs are the most common cause. In addition, cats and wild animals, such as skunks, raccoons and bats, can transfer the virus to humans through bites and scratches.

In Indonesia, cases of rabies are still endemic. According to data from the Ministry of Health, in early 2019 rabies was included in an extraordinary event (KLB) in Dompu Regency, NTB and spread to Sumbawa and Bima Regencies.

After a person is bitten, the virus spreads through the nerves to the brain. This activity causes severe inflammation of the brain and spinal cord. The infection will get worse quickly and cause death.