Vietnam reports 54 rabies deaths in first nine months of 2026

Vietnam has recorded 54 deaths due to rabies during the first nine months of 2026, according to the Ministry of Health. Approximately 400,000 people required preventive treatment following exposure to bites or contact with dogs and cats during this period.

In Ho Chi Minh City, six deaths have been reported, marking an increase of two cases compared to the same period last year. Health officials noted a concerning trend where many individuals only seek medical attention after clinical symptoms appear or miss the critical window for preventive treatment.

In Dong Nai province, the Center for Disease Control (CDC) reported a recent fatality involving a 27-year-old man who was bitten by a stray dog while attempting to trap it. The victim did not seek medical treatment or vaccination following the injury. Health authorities are currently managing the outbreak in the area through disinfection and contact tracing, including monitoring a 6-year-old child who was also bitten by the same animal.