Browsing: vaccination

The recent tragic death of a 13-year-old girl from rabies has highlighted the persistent public health challenge posed by this preventable tropical disease in the Philippines. Jamaica, a young girl from Manila, was bitten by a stray dog and, out of fear and misunderstanding, hid the incident from her parents.

The first round of the polio vaccination campaign in Jayapura, Indonesia, has achieved remarkable success, reaching an 81.3% coverage rate. This accomplishment marks a significant step in the global fight against polio, particularly in regions with historically low vaccination rates. This article will explore the details of the campaign, its impact, and the broader implications for public health in Asia.

Health officials are cautioning the public against kissing pets, even those that are vaccinated. Assistant Secretary Albert Domingo emphasised that animal saliva poses a significant risk for rabies transmission, comparable to bites and scratches. He highlighted the importance of seeking medical advice for potential post-exposure prophylaxis, as rabies symptoms can take up to a year to manifest. This advisory is part of a broader effort to mitigate the risk of rabies transmission through close contact with pets, which is often overlooked.

Cervical cancer remains a significant public health concern for women across Asia, with a disproportionately high burden compared to other regions. Early detection and prevention efforts are crucial in tackling this issue.