Buleleng, Indonesia – Health officials in Buleleng Regency, Bali, are emphasizing the importance of consistent messaging and public awareness in their ongoing efforts to control rabies. A monitoring and evaluation (Monev) program was officially launched on Wednesday, April 29, 2026, to strengthen coordination and improve the response to animal bite cases.
The initiative, led by the Buleleng Regency Health Office, brought together representatives from the Bali Provincial Health Office, rabies program managers from local health centers (Puskesmas), and personnel from regional hospitals including RSUD Kabupaten Buleleng, RSUD Tangguwisia, and RSUD Giri Emas.
According to Kadinkes Buleleng, Dr. Sucipto, S.Ked., M.A.P., the region has experienced fluctuating rates of Animal Bite Cases Potentially Transmitting Rabies (GHPR). Over the past five years, the average number of reported bites has ranged from 600 to 700 per month. Through March 2026, a total of 2,281 bite cases were recorded, tragically including one fatality linked to rabies due to the victim’s failure to seek medical attention after the bite.
“Despite existing case management protocols and collaborative efforts with related agencies and village governments, the results have not been optimal,” Dr. Sucipto stated during the opening of the Monev program. Key challenges include low public awareness regarding the dangers of rabies, limited availability of Anti-Rabies Vaccine (VAR), and inconsistencies in how cases are handled by different personnel in the field.
The monitoring and evaluation program aims to foster a unified approach and enhance coordination among stakeholders. Officials stressed the need to accelerate response times to bite incidents, optimize program implementation, and deliver effective and sustained public education. This coordinated effort is crucial, as rabies remains a significant public health concern in many parts of the world, and prompt intervention is vital to prevent the progression of the disease.
The Buleleng Regency Health Office can be reached at (0362) 21789 or dinkes@bulelengkab.go.id.
