Boy in Tagum City dies a month after getting scratched by dog

A 10-year-old boy in Tagum City, Davao del Norte died a month after a dog scratched his feet and authorities suspect he may have died of rabies.

In an interview with GMA Super Radyo Davao, Tagum City Health Office (CHO) Head, Dr. Arnel Florendo, said the boy died on Sunday, November 17, 2024, around a month after the incident with a dog.

Florendo said the boy told his parents about what happened only in the hospital.

CHO said the boy may have died of rabies because of some symptoms that manifested, including vomiting, difficulty in breathing, fear of water and air, and irritability.

As of this writing, authorities are identifying who the owner of the dog is.

CHO urged the public not to be complacent with dog bites and scratches.

Once bitten or scratched by a dog, the wound must be washed under running water and soap. The incident must also be reported to the Barangay Health Station for referral to an Animal Bite Center or private hospitals that have anti-rabies vaccines. Anti-rabies shots must also be completed. —GMA Regional TV

(Reports from Jaycel Villacorte, GMA Super Radyo Davao)