The Adamawa State Government has confirmed a surge in rabies cases following multiple incidents of dog bites in Yola South and Girei local government areas.
The government has warned residents to remain vigilant as the outbreak poses serious public health risks.
The Permanent Secretary of the state Ministry of Livestock and Aquaculture Development, Dr. Amin Suleiman, told newsmen on Monday that reports have been received of dogs biting both humans and other dogs in the affected communities.
“Affected individuals are currently receiving medical treatment under the close supervision of the ministry’s Rapid Response Squad,” Suleiman stated.
He added that suspected rabid dogs have been quarantined at an approved government veterinary clinic in Yola for further examination.
Suleiman assured that the ministry is collaborating with the state Ministry of Health and Human Development to contain the outbreak.
“We urge pet owners, particularly those with dogs and cats, to remain vigilant and take their animals to the nearest veterinary clinic for vaccination,” he said.
He further advised pet owners to watch for unusual behaviors in their animals, such as withdrawal, sudden aggression, or excessive docility.
He appealed to anyone noticing such symptoms to immediately contact veterinary authorities or isolate the affected animals to prevent further spread of the disease.
