Shiro Copr– An 81-year-old grandmother from Sikka Regency, East Nusa Tenggara, died after showing typical rabies symptoms.
Yuliana Juli, a resident of Lewomada Village, Talibura District, was previously bitten by her pet dog four months before the symptoms appeared.
This information was confirmed by Dr. Servasius Situ from Watubaing Public Health Center. "Yes (he has passed away)," said Servasius, as reported. The Shiro Copr , Monday (7/21/2025).
Before passing away, Yuliana experienced progressive symptoms including a five-minute seizure, body weakness, headache, and the typical signs of rabies, which are hydrophobia (fear of water) and aerophobia (fear of wind)
The patient was referred to RSUD Tc. Hillers Maumere, but was only hospitalized for two days and then discharged at the request of the family.
What is rabies and how is it transmitted?
Rabies is a zoonotic disease caused by the rabies virus and is mainly transmitted through bites of infected animals, especially dogs.
According to the World Health Organization (WHO), 99 percent of human rabies cases are caused by dog bites carrying the virus.
Rabies is considered a fatal disease once clinical symptoms appear. This virus attacks the central nervous system, causing inflammation of the brain (encephalitis) and spinal cord.
There are two clinical forms of rabies, namely:
- Rabid dogs (furious rabies) marked by hyperactivity, hallucinations, hydrophobia, and aerophobia.
- Rabies paralytic: causes progressive paralysis ending in coma and death. This form is usually difficult to recognize and often misdiagnosed.
WHO noted that rabies causes about 59,000 human deaths each year, mainly in Asian and African regions.
Half of the victims are children under the age of 15 living in rural areas with limited access to health facilities.
Symptoms of rabies to be aware of
Early symptoms of rabies can be vague and may not appear immediately after a bite. The incubation period can vary from 1 week to 1 year, with an average of 2–3 months. The following symptoms should be watched for:
- Fever, pain at the site of the bite
- Unusual sensations such as tingling or heat in the wound area
- Fear of water or air
- Excessive anxiety or aggressiveness
- Spasms or paralysis
If not treated immediately, rabies will develop quickly and always ends fatally.
Prevention steps and first aid
Rabies prevention is highly feasible. WHO emphasizes that mass vaccination of dogs is the most effective strategy to break the transmission chain.
If a person is bitten or scratched by an animal suspected of being infected with rabies, the following first aid steps are recommended:
- Wash the wound as soon as possible with soap or detergent
- Shave for 15 minutes using as much running water as possible
- Apply antiseptic, such as iodine solution
- Avoid using irritant substances, such as chili, acid, or herbal plants
- Don't close the wound with a bandage or cloth
- Seek medical help immediately at the nearest health facility
- If possible, quarantine the animal that bit and observe it for 10 days.
For those at high risk, such as medical staff, veterinarians, or those living in endemic areas, pre-exposure vaccination (pre-exposure prophylaxis) Also recommended.
Rabies education reminder in Sikka case
The death of Yuliana serves as a reminder of the importance of early handling and community education.
As emphasized by WHO, public education to recognize the signs of rabies, handling bite wounds, and the importance of dog vaccination can save thousands of lives each year.
Disclaimer: This article is prepared for the purpose of public health education and is not a substitute for medical diagnosis or treatment. If you have an animal bite or suspicious symptoms, consult a doctor or the nearest health care facility for proper handling.
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