east Kalimantan is grappling with a meaningful increase in rabies cases, prompting serious concerns from health officials and lawmakers. As of April 2025, the region has recorded 1,334 bite cases, with 391 new cases reported in the preceding four months alone.This alarming trend has spurred calls for heightened awareness, proactive vaccination programs, and immediate response measures.

The Growing Threat

Andi Satya Adi Saputra, Deputy Chairman of the East Kalimantan DPRD Commission IV, emphasized the gravity of the situation. The rabies case is not just a matter of animal bites. This is a matter of human life. The case data that continues to rise is a serious alarm for all of us, Mr. Satya said, highlighting the urgent need for extensive action.

Beyond Dogs: Understanding Transmission

While dogs are commonly associated with rabies transmission, Mr.Satya, also a doctor, cautioned that other animals can carry the virus as well. We have to change perception. Rabies are not only from dogs. Many people do not know that cats, monkeys, and even bats can be carriers of rabies viruses, he explained. This broader understanding is crucial for effective prevention.

Emergency First Aid: Immediate Steps After a Bite

mr. Satya outlined essential first aid steps for individuals who have been bitten by an animal:

• Wash the wound immediately: Use soap and running water for at least 15 minutes.
• Disinfect: Apply povidone-iodine or 70% alcohol to the wound.

Immediately wash the wound with soap and running water for 15 minutes.If any, use povidon iodine or 70%alcohol. This is an important first step to reduce the risk of infection, Mr. Satya advised.

Seeking Medical Attention: Vaccination is Key

Following first aid, it is imperative to seek immediate medical attention. Antirebies vaccine must be given in less then 24 hours. If the bite wound is in or wide, it needs to be injected with immunoglobulin (SAR) as well, Mr. Satya added. Timely vaccination is crucial to prevent the onset of rabies.

Government Action: A Multi-Faceted Approach

Mr. Satya urged the Health Office and related agencies to prioritize both medical responses and preventive measures. He emphasized the need for:

• Strengthened pet vaccination programs: Focus on vaccinating dogs and cats.
• Community education: Raise awareness about rabies and its transmission.
• Rapid response at health facilities: Ensure timely access to vaccines and immunoglobulin.

The government must strengthen the rabies vaccination program in animals, community education, and fast responses at the health facilities. This must be cross -sectoral: the DHO, Animal Husbandry, Camat, Lurah, until the RT must move together, he stated.

Proactive Measures: Preventing Future Outbreaks

Mr. Satya stressed the importance of proactive governance. Don’t wait for new casualties to move. Rabies can be prevented. Education, vaccination, and fast handling are the key. We already have all the instruments, just will and coordination, he concluded.