Spatial-temporal distribution of animal rabies cases in Sarawak, Malaysia, from 2017 to 2022

Rabies is a deadly zoonotic disease. It has been a growing concern in Sarawak, Malaysia. This study highlights the geographical spread, rabies prevalence rates, and affected animal species within the region. The analysis incorporates data from reported cases, laboratory confirmations, and surveillance efforts conducted from 2017 until 2022. A retrospective design research was conducted using Animal Rabies Sampling Result data, obtained from the Department of Veterinary Services, Sarawak for the period of 2017 to 2022. Prevalence rate for rabies in canine samples are 29.5% in 2017, 77.9% in 2018, 31.3% in 2019, 30.9% in 2020, 18.6% in 2021, and 11.5% in 2022, while the prevalence rate for rabies in feline samples are 31.6% in 2017, 56.3% in 2018, 33.0% in 2019, 40% in 2020, 25.0% in 2021, and 20.0% in 2022. Another type of sample, namely bat has a prevalence rate of 33.3% in the year 2018 and at 0% for the other years. By examining the distribution patterns, the study aims to identify key areas of concern and potential risk factors associated with the spread of rabies. The findings of this study contribute to the understanding of the epidemiology of rabies in Sarawak and can aid in the development of targeted interventions and preventive strategies to combat this public health threat. Further research and collaboration between health authorities, veterinary agencies, and local communities are crucial to effectively control and eliminate rabies in Sarawak. This study also aims to develop awareness among animal owners on the importance of animal vaccination and animal birth control in order to monitor and control the potential reservoir of rabies viruses. In conclusion, awareness is the most basic intervention that needs to be emphasized to ensure the effectiveness of other interventions such as neutering, vaccination, and others.