Benue State has confirmed a rabies outbreak in Kwande and Gboko Local Government Areas. The state’s Bureau of Livestock Development and Transboundary Animal Diseases Control reported that seven individuals were bitten by rabid dogs in these areas.  

Laboratory tests conducted at the National Veterinary Research Institute in Vom, Plateau State, confirmed the presence of the rabies virus in the dogs.

Urgent Action Underway

In response to the outbreak, the Benue State government, in collaboration with the One Health Development Initiative and other stakeholders, has initiated several measures:

• Contact Tracing: Identifying individuals exposed to the rabid animals for immediate medical attention.
• Public Awareness: Conducting community sensitization campaigns to educate the public on rabies prevention and control measures.
• Vaccination Campaigns: Implementing ring vaccination of dogs in Adikpo and launching a mass anti-rabies vaccination campaign across Kwande and Gboko to contain the spread of the disease.

Call to Action

The state government urges all pet owners to ensure their dogs and cats are vaccinated against rabies as required by law. Residents are advised to report any suspected cases of rabies in animals to the nearest veterinary office or local authorities.  

Key Takeaways:

• Rabies is a serious zoonotic disease that can be fatal to both humans and animals.  
• Dog bites are the primary source of human rabies infections.  
• Vaccination is crucial in preventing rabies in both animals and humans.  
• Prompt medical attention is essential for anyone bitten or scratched by a potentially rabid animal.