In a shocking incident, a foreign tourist named Angela D faced an unfortunate encounter while trying to rescue a stray puppy in Ubud, Gianyar, Bali. The European tourist, whose nationality remains unidentified, was bitten by the very dog she sought to save, which later tested positive for rabies.
Incident Overview
The incident occurred on Monday, September 23, 2024, in Banjar Kutuh, Sayan Village, Ubud. Angela D, upon discovering a small mixed-breed dog, decided to help the puppy by taking it to a veterinary clinic for care. She placed the puppy in a sack and began her journey to the clinic. However, during the trip, the dog bit her hand unexpectedly.
Immediately following the bite, Angela sought medical attention. “The 46-year-old woman received a rabies vaccine (VAR) at Toya Medika Clinic,” said Ni Nyoman Ariyuni, the Head of the Gianyar Health Office, in a statement to detikBali on Tuesday, October 1, 2024. Meanwhile, the rabies-infected puppy was transported to Saka Vet Clinic in Lodtunduh Village for observation.
Unfortunately, the three-month-old dog succumbed to the disease three days later, on September 26, 2024. Following the dog’s death, the Gianyar Health Office collected a brain sample, confirming that the dog was indeed rabies-positive. “The foreigner is scheduled to receive three doses of the rabies vaccine,” Ariyuni explained.
Rabies Control Measures
In response to the incident, the Ubud-Payangan Veterinary Health Unit (UPT Keswan) is now coordinating with the local village leadership of Banjar Kutuh to address the stray dog issue in the area. Wayan Widnyana, the Head of UPT Keswan, emphasized the need for an immediate response. “We are waiting for a request from the village head to proceed with the elimination of stray dogs. If necessary, our team is prepared to take action and euthanize any dogs suspected of carrying rabies.”
Additionally, Widnyana highlighted that efforts have already been made in the area. “We’ve vaccinated approximately 80% of the dogs in the vicinity, and these were not stray dogs,” he stated. This vaccination drive is a preventive measure to control the spread of rabies among the local dog population.
Rabies: A Public Health Threat
Rabies is a viral disease that poses a significant threat to both humans and animals. It is transmitted through the bite of an infected animal, most commonly dogs. In Bali, rabies outbreaks have been an ongoing challenge, particularly in areas with high stray dog populations. This incident serves as a stark reminder of the importance of proper rabies vaccination and control measures.
For Angela D, the swift response of local health authorities likely saved her from the more severe consequences of a rabies infection. However, the presence of rabies-positive animals in the area raises concerns about the potential risk to other residents and tourists.
Final Thoughts
This incident underlines the importance of exercising caution around stray animals, especially in regions known for rabies outbreaks. If you encounter a stray dog, it is crucial to avoid direct contact and report the animal to local authorities or a veterinary clinic. Additionally, anyone bitten by a stray or wild animal should seek immediate medical attention and ensure they receive post-exposure rabies vaccination if necessary.
Rabies control efforts, such as mass vaccination of dogs and the management of stray populations, are vital in curbing the spread of the virus. Collaboration between health officials, local authorities, and the community is essential in ensuring the safety of both residents and visitors in areas prone to rabies outbreaks.
