By Emmanuel Antswen
THE BENUE State Government has confirmed the outbreak of rabies virus in Kwande and Gboko local government areas (LGAs) of the state.
Dr Aondoakaa Asambe, Director General (DG), Benue Bureau of Livestock Development and Transboundary Animal Diseases Control, made the disclosure on Monday in Makurdi.
Asambe said the bureau was alerted to suspected rabies cases following reports of a dog bite incident affecting multiple individuals in Adikpo, Kwande LGA, and in Gboko LGA.
The DG explained that in total, seven persons were bitten by the two dogs, adding that the government has commenced contact tracing to identify those involved.
He said investigations revealed that the infected dog in Adikpo was sold to vendors to process for consumption.
“Thankfully, the dog’s head was retrieved and submitted to the National Veterinary Research Institute (NVRI) in Vom, Plateau, where laboratory results confirmed the presence of the rabies virus.
“Rabies is a deadly zoonotic disease with serious implications for both human and animal health.
“According to the World Health Organisation (WHO), over 55,000 people lose their lives to rabies annually, with most cases resulting from dog bites.
“This outbreak serves as a sobering reminder of the need for urgent action to meet the WHO’s 2030 target to eliminate dog bite-transmitted rabies.” he said
Asambe said that the result also showed that the dog bite in Gboko LG was also a rabies case.
In response to the outbreak, he said the bureau, in collaboration with the One Health Development Initiative (OHDI) and other critical stakeholders, has taken steps to address it.
“Tracing and identifying exposed individuals for immediate medical intervention. Community sensitisation campaigns to raise awareness about rabies prevention and control. Ring vaccination of dogs in Adikpo and the launch of a mass anti-rabies vaccination campaign across Kwande and Gboko to curb the spread of the disease,” he said.
The D-G said the interventions became necessary following the critical role dogs play in rural areas as companions, security providers, and contributors to livelihoods (hunting).
He said their aim was not only to address the current outbreak but also to strengthen long-term preventive measures.
“Looking ahead, the bureau is committed to draughting and implementing a subnational rabies eradication plan, which will guide our coordinated efforts to achieve a rabies-free Benue state by 2030.
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“We call on all pet owners to vaccinate their dogs and cats against rabies as required by law. The bureau will continue to provide the necessary support to ensure the success of the vaccination programme.
“To the residents of Benue, we urge vigilance. I implore us to report any suspected rabies cases in animals to the nearest veterinary office or local authorities.
“Additionally, anyone bitten or scratched by a dog or other animal should seek medical attention immediately,” he said.
Asambe commended OHDI for their support and other partners’ contributions to collectively eradicate rabies in Benue state and beyond. (NAN)
