Rabies Still a Threat in Indonesia, Deaths Due to Rabies in Bali Double

Rabies continues to be a threat to public health in Indonesia. In November 2025, rabies cases, particularly in Bali, saw a significant increase. As of November 12, 2025, there were 57,853 incidents of rabies-infected animal bites, averaging 193 bites per day. Meanwhile, in Konawe District, Southeast Sulawesi Province, 291 cases of wild animals biting people have been documented, posing a risk of transmitting rabies. This data from the Health Office covers the period from January to the end of October. TRIBUNNEWS.COM, JAKARTA – Rabies cases remain a health threat in Indonesia. Rabies is an acute contagious disease that affects the central nervous system, caused by the rabies virus and transmitted through bites or saliva of Rabies Transmitting Animals (RTAs). Ministry of Health (MoH) data shows that out of 38 provinces, 26 are endemic to rabies. National data up to March 2025 indicates 13,453 cases of rabies-infected animal bites (RIAB) and 25 human deaths. In response to this situation, the MoH issued Circular Letter HK.02.02/C/508/2025 to raise awareness. Recent findings reveal a significant increase in rabies transmission in Bali. Deaths due to rabies in Bali have doubled compared to the previous year. Not only Bali, but other regions like NTT have also seen a rise in rabies cases in Indonesia. In Konawe Sultra, hundreds of people bitten by dogs are at risk of rabies.