Despite efforts to contain the virus, rabies continues to spread throughout Sarawak. File Photo
KUCHING: Kampung Tambirat in Asajaya is the latest area in Sarawak to be declared rabies-infected.
This brings the total number of rabies-infected areas to 62 across the state.
Deputy Chief Minister and Sarawak Disaster Management Committee chairman Datuk Amar Douglas Uggah Embas made the announcement in a statement issued today.
The declaration of a rabies-infected area comes after the virus has been detected in dogs and other animals in the area and beyond the 10-kilometre radius of existing infected areas.
Those residing there are reminded to ensure their domesticated dogs are not brought out of the 10-kilometre radius of rabies-declared areas without a permit from the state veterinary authority.
Those who breach this regulation will face a fine of up to RM5,000 or a jail term of up to three years, or both, if convicted.
The offence and penalty are provided for under Section 37(2) and (3) of the Veterinary Public Health Ordinance 1999.
The rabies outbreak in Sarawak has been declared a Level II Disaster and has killed 16 since the outbreak began in July 2017.
One other rabies victim is currently comatose and being treated at home.