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| The Tacloban City Veterinary Office educates students on rabies prevention and responsible pet ownership to promote community health. Photo: Tacloban CVO/FB |
TACLOBAN CITY —To combat rabies, the Tacloban City Government, through the Tacloban City Veterinary Office (CVO), has launched an Information, Education, and Communication (IEC) campaign in elementary schools throughout the city. This initiative aims to raise students' awareness about rabies prevention and the importance of responsible pet ownership.
The campaign began on September 6 at Bliss Elementary School in Barangay 74 Nulatula, where 76 Grade 5 and 6 students participated in discussions about the risks associated with rabies. Educators explained that rabies is a viral disease transmitted primarily through the bites of infected animals, leading to severe health consequences if not treated promptly.
On September 9, the CVO team visited two additional schools in Brgy. Tagpuro: Tagpuro Elementary School and Villa Sofia Elementary School. The sessions, which focused on the symptoms and prevention of rabies, attracted 67 students from Grades 4 and 5 at Tagpuro E.S. and 53 fifth and sixth graders at Villa Sofia E.S.
The initiative continued on September 10 at Sta. Elena Elementary School, where 61 students from Grades 4 to 6 learned about the causes and effects of rabies. This was followed by a successful session at New Hope Elementary School, which drew 142 fourth and fifth graders for a film showing on responsible pet ownership and discussions on how to keep pets healthy.
Importance of rabies education
The primary goal of the CVO’s campaign is to equip the younger generation with essential knowledge about rabies. Rabies attacks the nervous system and can lead to death if untreated. According to the World Health Organization, dogs are responsible for approximately 99% of human rabies cases. Understanding this connection helps students appreciate the importance of pet vaccinations and avoiding animal bites.
Ongoing support for pet owners
In addition to educating students, the CVO is committed to providing ongoing support for pet owners. The office offers anti-rabies vaccinations for pets, ensuring they remain healthy and protected from the disease. Pet owners are encouraged to visit the Tacloban City Veterinary Office, located on the second floor of the MASA building in the Northwing of the Tacloban City Supermarket, from Monday to Friday between 8:00 a.m. and 5:00 p.m.
How to help in the community
- Get pets vaccinated – Ensure your pets are vaccinated against rabies.
- Educate others – Share information about rabies and its prevention with friends and family.
- Report stray animals – If you notice stray animals that may pose a risk, report them to local authorities.
- Be responsible – Always supervise pets and teach children how to interact safely with animals.
Through this comprehensive campaign, the Tacloban City Veterinary Office aims to build a healthier and safer community by empowering the youth with knowledge and encouraging responsible pet ownership.