World · Malaysia Bureau
Kedah reports first rabies death in over two decades
A 31-year-old man from Kubang Pasu has become the first person to die from rabies in Kedah since 1998, after being bitten by a stray dog last month, state health authorities said.
LSN Malaysia ·
The victim, whose identity has not been disclosed, contracted the fatal virus following the dog bite incident last month, marking a significant public health concern for the northern state. Rabies remains one of the deadliest infectious diseases once symptoms manifest, with a fatality rate approaching 100 percent if left untreated following exposure.
The Kedah State Health Department confirmed the death, noting that the case underscores the ongoing risks posed by stray animal populations in the state. The victim's delayed presentation for post-exposure prophylaxis treatment, or his failure to receive prompt medical intervention, likely contributed to the fatal outcome.
The incident has prompted renewed calls for enhanced surveillance and control of stray dog populations across Kedah. Health officials are expected to intensify public awareness campaigns on the importance of seeking immediate medical attention following animal bites and the availability of rabies vaccination programmes.
Malaysia has maintained low rabies incidence rates through systematic vaccination programmes and animal control measures, though sporadic cases continue to occur, particularly in rural areas where stray dog populations remain a challenge.