The Benue State government has confirmed an outbreak of rabies, a deadly viral disease that affects both animals and humans, prompting urgent measures to curb its spread across the state.
Acting Director of Livestock Services in the State Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security, Dr Gabriel Amase, disclosed that four cases had been confirmed, while 24 others were under investigation at the Veterinary Hospital in Vom, Plateau State.
He said the Ministry had launched a public awareness campaign, including media sensitisation, to educate residents on preventive steps against the disease.
According to him, the state has intensified surveillance at quarantine units to monitor animals entering Benue and has placed a ban on the unrestricted movement of dogs.
“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,” Amase said.
He urged parents to warn their children against playing with dogs and advised residents to suspend the consumption of dog meat as a precautionary measure.
Dr Amase added that the Ministry was coordinating with neighbouring states to prevent cross-border spread and had informed the Federal Ministry of Agriculture about the outbreak.
He said plans were underway to commence a mass vaccination campaign for dogs once funding was secured, targeting high-risk areas.
“The Ministry is working tirelessly to control the rabies outbreak and protect the public from this deadly disease,” he assured.
