Rabies Threat Persists in Tabanan: A Call too Action

Despite ongoing efforts, rabies remains a critically important public health concern in Bali, notably in the Tabanan Regency. Recent reports indicate two confirmed cases of rabies in 2025 alone. These incidents, occurring in Banjar Lodalang, Kukuh Village (February), and Delod Peken Village, Tabanan District (March), underscore the urgent need for intensified prevention and control measures.According to the World Health Association (WHO), rabies is almost always fatal following the onset of clinical symptoms. This makes proactive intervention crucial.

Collaborative Response: Health and Agriculture Unite

In response to these recent outbreaks, the Tabanan Health Office (Dinkes), in close collaboration with the Tabanan Agriculture Office (Distan), has launched a comprehensive epidemiological investigation. This joint effort aims to meticulously trace the spread of the virus, identify potential carriers, and assess the extent of exposure among the local population. The investigation includes detailed tracking of bite victims and rigorous identification of animals suspected of carrying the rabies virus. This collaborative approach is vital for effective rabies control,as it addresses both human and animal health aspects.

Through the cooperation of epidemiological investigation, the handling of rabies can be faster and death in humans can be prevented.

Gde Eka Parta Ariana, Head of animal Husbandry and Animal Health of Tabanan

Strategic Interventions: Vaccination and Red Zone Designation

Gde Eka Parta Ariana, Head of animal Husbandry and Animal Health for Tabanan, emphasized the importance of this inter-agency collaboration. He highlighted that joint efforts, including brain sampling of dogs for laboratory analysis and meticulous tracking of rabies cases in canines, are crucial for rapid response and preventing fatalities. The epidemiological investigation also allows authorities to identify high-risk “red zones,” where vaccination efforts are prioritized. In areas with confirmed rabies cases,emergency vaccination protocols are immediately implemented to create a buffer of immunity and prevent further spread.

Community Engagement: Education is Key

Dr. Ida Bagus Surya Wira Andi, Head of the Tabanan Health Office, stressed the critical role of community involvement in rabies prevention. The Health Office, working with Distan Tabanan and its three animal Health Centers (Puskeswan), is actively engaged in educating the public about the dangers of rabies and the importance of prompt action following animal bites. Raising awareness and promoting quick response are essential to minimizing the risk of infection. This includes teaching residents how to properly clean wounds after a bite and emphasizing the need to seek immediate medical attention.

We continue to strive to provide education to the community to better understand the dangers of rabies and how to prevent it. Awareness and quick action are very vital to avoid greater risk.

dr.Ida Bagus Surya Wira Andi, Head of the Tabanan Health Office

Tabanan’s Rabies Centers: accessible and Ready

Beyond collaborative investigations and community education, the Tabanan Health Office maintains a network of dedicated rabies centers to provide immediate care. These centers are equipped to handle cases involving potentially rabid animals and administer both anti-rabies vaccine (VAR) and anti-rabies serum (SAR). Dr. Bagus Wira urged the public to exercise caution around animals and to seek immediate medical attention if bitten. He emphasized that all animal bites carry a risk of rabies transmission and require prompt assessment. The recommended first step is to thoroughly wash the wound with soap and running water for at least 15 minutes, followed by a visit to the nearest rabies center for vaccination.

24/7 rabies Centers in Tabanan:

• Pupuan Puskesmas i
• Puskesmas Selemadeg Barat
• puskesmas Baturiti i
• Selemadeg Puskesmas
• Penebel Health Center i
• Tabanan Hospital
• RSUD SINGSALA

12-Hour Rabies Centers in Tabanan:

• Selemadeg Timur I Puskesmas I
• Kerambitan Puskesmas i
• Puskesmas Tabanan III
• Puskesmas Kediri i
• Puskesmas Marga i