What is Sarawak doing to prevent rabies spread near its border?

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Sarawak Deploys Immune Belt Enforcement Teams for Rabies Prevention Along Border

Sarawak is actively implementing a strategy to prevent rabies spread by deploying Immune Belt Enforcement Teams (IBET) to vaccinate dogs and cats along the Sarawak-Kalimantan border. These teams are equipped to operate in remote areas and are focused on creating a protective immune belt to safeguard local animal populations from potential rabies exposure originating from outside the state.
IBET Teams Form a Protective Border

Two dedicated IBET teams are currently operational, covering the extensive border region from Sematan to Lawas. Their primary function is to administer vaccinations to dogs and cats situated near the border. The aim is to establish an "immune belt" that acts as a barrier, preventing rabid animals from crossing and infecting the local unvaccinated population. This initiative underscores the state government's commitment to border security against rabies.
Vaccination Efforts and Rabies Surveillance Data

The IBET teams are equipped with essential vaccination supplies and communication instruments, enabling them to function effectively even in remote border locations. This year, a total of 40 animal samples, derived from both bite cases and random testing, have been analysed for rabies. Out of these, 18 samples, comprising 16 dogs and 2 cats, tested positive for the virus. Furthermore, since the beginning of the year up to the present date, 514 animals have received vaccinations, with 492 being dogs and 22 being cats.
IBET's Broader Role in Disease Control and Environmental Monitoring

Sarawak was the first state in Malaysia to establish the IBET initiative, which was launched in 2022. Beyond its crucial role in rabies prevention, the IBET's mandate extends to monitoring and addressing other animal diseases, such as swine fever. The teams also contribute to environmental monitoring, reflecting a comprehensive approach to animal health and ecosystem well-being along the border regions.

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What is Sarawak doing to prevent rabies spread near its border?

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