Manila: The Philippine Health Insurance Corporation (PhilHealth) on Friday reminded the public of its rabies benefit package following reported animal bite incidents and rabies concerns.

According to Philippines News Agency, PhilHealth issued an advisory stating that members and their qualified dependents who have been exposed to rabies through animal bites are entitled to an animal bite treatment package with a fixed amount of PHP5,850. The package includes essential medical interventions such as rabies vaccine, rabies immune globulin, local wound care, tetanus toxoid, anti-tetanus serum, antibiotics, and necessary treatment supplies like syringes, alcohol, and antiseptics.

Individuals concerned about rabies exposure can avail of the package at Animal Bite Treatment Centers or health facilities accredited by PhilHealth. The Department of Health (DOH) has reported 124 rabies cases from January 1 to May 17 this year, indicating a 32-percent drop from the 183 cases recorded during the same period last year. Despite the decrease in cases, the DOH continues to emphasize the importance of rabies prevention and treatment due to its 100 percent case fatality rate.

Rabies cases occur throughout the year, prompting pet owners to vaccinate their cats and dogs against the rabies virus. Local government units support this effort by offering free anti-rabies shots for cats and dogs under the Rabies Control Act.