The Enugu State Government has announced a confirmed outbreak of rabies among dogs in Igbo Etiti Local Government Area, raising concerns over the deadly nature of the disease.
The disclosure was made on Tuesday by the Commissioner for Agriculture and Agro-Industrialisation, Patrick Ubru, in a public advisory urging residents to remain vigilant.
He explained that rabies is a highly dangerous viral infection that can affect both humans and animals, commonly spread through bites or saliva from infected animals, particularly dogs.
According to the government, the disease has an extremely high fatality rate once symptoms begin to manifest in either humans or animals, making early prevention critical.
In response to the outbreak, authorities have introduced several preventive measures aimed at curbing further transmission.
“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.
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The ministry also outlined steps to be taken in case of possible exposure to the virus.
“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 further advised to promptly report animals displaying unusual symptoms such as aggression, excessive drooling, strange behaviour, or paralysis to veterinary authorities within their locality.
Ubru added that the state’s Veterinary Services Department is collaborating with relevant stakeholders to control the situation and safeguard public health.
He also emphasised the importance of community awareness, calling on local leaders to educate residents about the risks associated with rabies.
The government encouraged members of the public to report suspected cases or seek further information through the State Veterinary Services Department in Enugu.