PhilHealth marked World Rabies Day on Sunday by urging the public to vaccinate pets and use its treatment package against the deadly disease.
The observance highlights rabies risks and promotes vaccination and animal care as key defenses.
Rabies remains one of the most fatal yet preventable viral infections, transmitted through bites and scratches from infected animals. Health experts stress that timely vaccination of pets, especially dogs and cats, is the most effective way to protect households and communities.
PhilHealth said preventing rabies is both a personal responsibility and a public health priority. To expand access to care, it offers an Animal Bite Treatment package covering post-exposure needs.
The package provides financial coverage of up to ₱5,850 for individuals bitten or exposed to potentially rabid animals. It includes vaccines, immune globulin if necessary, wound care, tetanus shots, antibiotics, and other supplies.
Available in more than 700 accredited health facilities nationwide, the package complements public vaccination campaigns. PhilHealth also urged households to prioritize pet vaccination as the first line of defense against rabies infection.
