Rabies Vaccines Are Now Available to Filipino Communities
With rabies remaining a serious but preventable health threat in the Philippines, Dr. Care Medical Group introduces JOYRAB to make rabies protection more accessible to Filipino families
Parents know the drill: One playful moment with a dog or cat can quickly become a source of worry when a scratch or bite breaks the skin. The good news is that a potential rabies exposure does not have to become a tragedy—prompt wound care and appropriate medical treatment can prevent rabies from developing.
Dr. Care Medical Group Inc. has introduced JOYRAB, an FDA-approved Purified Vero Cell Rabies Vaccine, to Filipino communities. According to Dr. Care, JOYRAB has already been used by thousands of doctors nationwide and is now part of the group’s efforts to make rabies prevention more accessible.
The announcement came during a press conference ahead of the 7th Philippine Faces of Success Awards Night at Camelot Hotel in Quezon City. Dr. Mark Mendoza, founder of Dr. Care Medical Group Inc., joined representatives from Dr. Care and JOYRAB importer Sahar International Trading Inc. to discuss the importance of timely rabies protection.
Why Guarding Against Rabies Is a Must
Rabies remains a serious public health concern in the Philippines. The Philippine News Agency reported in March 2026 that around 300 to 400 Filipinos die from rabies every year, alongside approximately four million animal-bite cases annually. Importantly, rabies isn’t limited to stray animals: unvaccinated owned pets can also transmit the virus.
That doesn’t mean parents should fear every friendly dog or cat. Animals may bite or scratch when frightened, startled, hurt, or provoked—and responsible pet care, including vaccination, helps protect both animals and people.
Rabies is nearly always fatal once symptoms appear, but it is preventable when treatment begins promptly.
Always Be Prepared
If your child is bitten or scratched, wash the wound immediately with soap and running water for at least 15 minutes, then seek medical assessment at an Animal Bite Treatment Center. Don’t rely on home remedies such as garlic, vinegar, or pepper.
Parents should also keep their pets’ anti-rabies vaccinations updated and teach children to interact gently with animals—especially pets that are eating, sleeping, injured, frightened, or unfamiliar.
Dr. Care says its network of more than 150 DOH-standard Animal Bite Centers nationwide reflects its long-standing commitment to animal-bite management and rabies prevention. JOYRAB’s availability adds another option for healthcare professionals and families seeking timely protection.
Frequently Asked Questions
JOYRAB is an FDA-approved Purified Vero Cell Rabies Vaccine, according to Dr. Care.
Yes. Seek professional assessment after a bite or scratch.
Wash the wound with soap and running water for at least 15 minutes.
No. Rabies becomes extremely dangerous once symptoms appear, so don’t delay medical care.
No. Fear, pain, trauma, or provocation can also affect animal behavior. A veterinarian or healthcare professional should assess the situation.
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