An unusual incident occurred on September 21 on Mount Batukaru in Tabanan. A stray dog attacked tourists ascending towards the peak via the village of Pujungan route. In total, 15 people were affected, with nine being bitten and the rest injured during attempts to defend themselves.
According to village chief I Made Rimayasa, the animal attacked around noon, mainly biting legs. 'All affected individuals were immediately directed for rabies vaccination,' he reported.
By evening, some climbers had already descended, but seven had to be evacuated from the mountain with the help of volunteers and local guides. Five victims received treatment at the local medical center and returned home, while two sought care in Denpasar clinics. Another man was unharmed, as the bite hit his shoe. All those who sought medical help were given rabies vaccines, and wounds were treated according to the standard protocol. The authorities assured that there are adequate stocks of vaccines and serum in Tabanan.
The dog was captured. After laboratory analysis of the dog's brain matter, it was confirmed to be infected with the rabies virus. In response to the incident, local authorities started an emergency vaccination of all dogs in Pujungan village, a popular climbing route. Plans include vaccinating 167 dogs, including strays.
Local residents link the presence of stray dogs on the mountain to the rubbish left by tourists. Food remnants attract animals to higher areas. 'We hope for government intervention, although formally the climbing routes are managed by the forestry department,' Rimayasa noted.
If you are bitten or scratched by a street dog, or in Bali, possibly by a monkey, bat, or other creatures, you should get vaccinated and see a doctor the same day.
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