Doc Alvin Francisco Reminds Public What to Do After a Pet Bite
DOC ALVIN FRANCISCO – Doctor Alvin Francisco shared reminder for people bitten by dogs, urging them to seek immediate medical attention regardless of the pet’s behavior.
Amid concerning reports of rabies-related deaths in the Philippines, Doc Alvin Francisco has shared important reminders for those who have been bitten by pets. This comes after the tragic case of a factory worker in Cabuyao, Laguna who died from rabies nine months after being bitten. According to a GMA News Online report, the victim did not complete the recommended rabies vaccine doses.
To raise awareness, Doc Alvin used his Facebook Reels platform to inform the public about the proper steps to take after being bitten by a dog or cat.
He explained, “Kung ‘yung aso na kumagat sa inyo ay hindi n’yo nabantayan… ibig sabihin mataas po ‘yung risk n’yo for rabies infection.” He stressed that if the animal cannot be monitored or has suddenly disappeared or died, the risk of rabies infection increases significantly.
However, if the animal is a household pet, fully vaccinated, and remains healthy for two weeks post-bite, the risk is much lower. “Masigla, hindi siya ‘yung parang nagwawala… mababa po ang risk for rabies infection nun,” he added.
Despite the varying risk levels, Doc Alvin strongly recommends that anyone bitten by an animal—whether the pet is observed to be healthy or not—should still seek medical attention. “Mas maganda pa rin talaga magpunta sa clinic para magbakuna regardless of the situation,” he emphasized.
He also highlighted in another post a list of hospitals offering free anti-rabies vaccinations. According to the Department of Health (DOH), the Philippines recorded 426 rabies-related deaths in 2024 alone, underlining the critical importance of prompt post-bite action.
Rabies is a fatal but preventable disease. Doc Alvin’s reminders aim to educate the public on responsible pet ownership and immediate response to bites, which could ultimately save lives.
READ ALSO: Woman in Bacolod City Dies of Rabies Months After Dog Bite