Enugu warns residents as rabies outbreak hits LGA

The Enugu State Government has confirmed an outbreak of dog rabies in the Igbo Etiti Local Government Area of the state, warning residents of the high fatality rate associated with the viral disease.

The Commissioner for Agriculture and Agro-Industrialisation, Patrick Ubru, who disclosed this in a public notice on Tuesday, urged the public to exercise extreme caution.

The commissioner described rabies as a highly fatal viral disease that affects both animals and humans, primarily transmitted through the bite or saliva of infected animals, especially dogs.

The government warned that once clinical signs of the virus appear in a human or animal, the disease is almost always fatal.

Consequently, the ministry rolled out a series of containment measures to prevent a further spread.

“All dog owners and pet keepers are urged to vaccinate their animals against rabies without delay.

“Pet owners have been directed to confine their animals and prevent them from roaming freely in public spaces.

Members of the public are cautioned to avoid contact with stray or unfamiliar animals within the local government area,” the statement read.

The ministry further provided a medical protocol for individuals who may come into contact with suspected rabid animals.

“Anyone bitten or scratched by an animal should immediately wash the wound thoroughly with mild soap under running water for at least 10 minutes and seek urgent medical care at the nearest health facility,” the statement read.

Residents were also urged to report animals showing signs of aggression, excessive salivation, abnormal behaviour, or paralysis to the nearest veterinary authority within their local government.

Ubru assured the public that the state’s Veterinary Services Department was actively working with relevant stakeholders to contain the outbreak and protect public health.

The administration also called on community leaders to sensitise residents on the dangers of the virus, noting that community awareness remained a critical tool in preventing human casualties.

The ministry stated that further information or reports of suspected cases should be directed to the State Veterinary Services Department in Enugu.

Culled from punch