Enugu State government has confirmed the outbreak of dog rabies in Igbo-Etiti Local Government Area of the state.

A statement by the Commissioner for Agriculture and Agro – Industralisation, Patrick Nwabueze Ubru , said rabies is a highly fatal viral disease that affects both animals and humans.

He added that it is primarily transmitted through the bite or saliva of infected animals, especially dogs.

“Once clinical signs appear, the disease is almost always fatal”, he said.

In view of the development, the Ministry strongly advised the immediate vaccination of all dogs by dogs owners and other pets without delay.

The statement also urged Pet owners to confine their animals and prevent them from roaming freely, while asking members of the public to avoid contact with stray or unfamiliar animals.

It also called for report of any suspected rabid animal (showing signs such as aggression, excessive salivation, abnormal behavior, or paralysis) should be reported immediately to the
nearest veterinary authority within Local Government areas.

The statement urged 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.

It encouraged Community leaders and stakeholders to sensitise residents on the dangers of rabies and the importance of prevention, assuring that the Ministry was actively working with relevant authorities to contain the outbreak and protect public health.