A 10-year-old boy from Tagum City, Davao del Norte, passed away on November 17, 2024, a month after being scratched by a dog, with health authorities suspecting rabies as the cause of death.
Dr. Arnel Florendo, head of the Tagum City Health Office, confirmed the boy’s death during an interview with GMA Super Radyo Davao. According to Florendo, the child informed his parents about the dog scratch only after being admitted to the hospital.
The health office reported that the boy displayed symptoms consistent with rabies, such as vomiting, difficulty breathing, hydrophobia, and irritability.
Authorities are currently working to identify the owner of the dog involved. The City Health Office reminded the public of the importance of immediate action following any dog bite or scratch. This includes thorough washing of the wound with running water and soap, reporting the incident to the local Barangay Health Station, and completing the required anti-rabies vaccine series at an Animal Bite Center or private hospital.
