By Aloysius Umalo, Makurdi
The Government of Benue State in North Central Nigeria has officially confirmed an outbreak of rabies, a deadly neglected tropical viral disease that affects mammals, especially dogs and humans.
Dr. Gabriel Amase, the Ag. Director of Livestock Services in the State Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security, confirmed that there have been at least 4 confirmed cases of rabies, with 24 others currently under investigation at the Veterinary Hospital in Vom, Plateau State.
In response to the outbreak, he said the Ministry has initiated measures to raise awareness among the public, including media sensitization campaigns.
According to him, some precautionary steps have been taken, such as the intensification of surveillance activities by the quarantine unit targeting new animals coming into the state.
Dr. Amase also announced plans by the Ministry for a mass vaccination campaign for dogs adding that a ban had been placed to restrict the free movement of dogs in the state.
“Owners of dogs have been directed to ensure that their pets are vaccinated, and a ban has been placed on the movement of dogs to prevent further spread of the disease”.
Dr. Amase also urged parents to advise their children against interacting with dogs, particularly within this period.
The Director called on those in the habit of eating dog meat as a delicacy to suspend further consumption of dog meat as a precaution.
He added that the Ministry is also coordinating with neighboring states to prevent the spread of rabies across borders, and plans to inform the Federal Ministry of Agriculture about the outbreak.
“Efforts are also being made to secure funding for the vaccination campaign and once the funds are released, the Ministry will begin targeted vaccination of dogs in high-risk areas.
Voice of Nigeria Correspondent Aloysius Umalo reports that the Ministry is working tirelessly to control the rabies outbreak and protect the public from the deadly disease.
