Two people died after contracting rabies in Shenzhen last year out of a total of 12 cases recorded, yesterday's Daily Sunshine reported.

More than 55,700 local residents were also either bitten or scratched by animals last year, 29 percent more than the previous year, according to figures released recently by the municipal health bureau.

The 12 rabies cases involved 10 people who contracted the disease in neighboring cities and two residents who died after being infected with the disease in Shenzhen.

The health bureau has warned the public to be aware of the risks involved in exposure to dogs and other animals.

"The increase in the number of rabies cases was due to the growing number of pets after the city lowered registration fees for dogs, cats and other animals," the report said.

Editor: Yan