Health officials have announced a three-month campaign to vaccinate 200,000 cats and dogs against rabies in 16 provinces around the DR. Community Health Deputy Minister Nelson Rodriguez Monegro said that the program would cost RD$100 million, which also covers promotional and educational activities. The deputy minister said that between 16,000 and 20,000 people are infected with rabies each year. Rodriguez encouraged pet-owners to take their animals to be vaccinated. The vaccinations will be free of charge.