The Adamawa State Government has confirmed incidents of dog bites and resulting rabies in some communities of Yola South and Girei local government areas.
The government, affirming reported rising cases of rabies in the affected communities, cautioned residents to be watchful, as the situation has serious public health implications.
The Permanent Secretary of the state Ministry of Livestock and Aquaculture Development, Dr. Amin Suleiman, told newsmen that the ministry has received reports of dogs biting both humans and other dogs.
“Affected individuals are currently receiving medical treatment under the close supervision of the ministry’s Rapid Response Squad,” the permanent secretary disclosed.
He added that suspected rabid dogs have been quarantined at an approved government veterinary clinic in Yola for further examination.
He assured that his ministry is working closely 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.
