Nigeria Today Magazine General News Benue Confirms Rabies Outbreak in Two LGAs

Benue Confirms Rabies Outbreak in Two LGAs


Benuw state Gov. Hyacinth-Alia

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The Benue State Bureau of Livestock Development and Transboundary Animal Diseases Control has confirmed a rabies outbreak in two local government areas (LGAs) of the state. The Director General of the Bureau, Dr. Aondoakaa Asambe, made this announcement at a press conference in Makurdi, revealing that the cases were identified in Adikpo, in Kwande LGA, and Gboko LGA following a dog bite incident affecting multiple individuals.

Dr. Asambe stated that the Bureau was alerted to a suspected rabies case after reports of a dog bite in Adikpo. Investigations showed that the infected dog had been sold to vendors for consumption. The dog’s head was subsequently retrieved and tested positive for the rabies virus at the National Veterinary Research Institute in Vom, Plateau State.

In response to the outbreak, the Bureau, in collaboration with the One Health Development Initiative (OHDI) and other stakeholders, has launched several measures. These include identifying individuals exposed to the infected dog for immediate medical intervention and conducting community sensitization campaigns to raise awareness about rabies prevention and control. Additionally, a ring vaccination of dogs in Adikpo and a mass anti-rabies vaccination campaign across Kwande LGA and Gboko are set to commence on Tuesday.

Looking ahead, the Bureau is committed to drafting a subnational rabies eradication plan aimed at achieving a rabies-free Benue State by 2030. They are urging all pet owners to vaccinate their dogs and cats against rabies as mandated by law.

Dr. Asambe emphasized the importance of vigilance among residents, urging them to report any suspected rabies cases in animals to local veterinary offices or authorities and to seek medical attention immediately if bitten or scratched. Rabies is a serious zoonotic disease, with the World Health Organization estimating that over 55,000 people die from rabies annually, primarily due to dog bites.

Governor Hyacinth Iormem Alia has expressed a strong commitment to protecting the health and well-being of residents, highlighting the need to address public health challenges such as rabies.

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