The Delta State Government has issued a concerning revelation, stating that there have been over 60 cases of rabies and five deaths in the state over the past two months. The State Commissioner for Health, Dr Joseph Onojaeme, brought this alarming information to light during a walk held to commemorate World Rabies Day in Asaba, the capital of Delta State.
The purpose of the walk was to raise awareness among the public about rabies and the importance of reporting any suspected cases. Dr Onojaeme emphasized the urgency of seeking prompt medical attention when confronted with this deadly disease, stating, “We embarked on this walk for life to educate people about rabies and the critical need to report cases to hospitals early to prevent fatalities.” Unfortunately, the delay in reporting some cases led to the tragic loss of lives.
Dr Onojaeme also appealed to the public to ensure their dogs receive proper vaccination, as this remains the most effective method to prevent the spread of rabies. Vaccinating dogs can help address up to 90% of rabies cases. Furthermore, he revealed that the state has already recorded over 60 rabies cases within a two-month period, resulting in five deaths.
Dr. Mildred Okowa, the State Epidemiologist, added that two individuals had also been left paralyzed as a result of contracting rabies. She explained how individuals can acquire rabies through bites from infected dogs or cats and urged all dog owners to ensure their pets receive annual vaccinations. The current outbreak demands heightened vigilance, as negligence can have dire consequences. Dr Okowa stressed, “If a dog is vaccinated, it will not carry rabies. Therefore, even if it bites a human being, the person will not contract the disease. Rabies is a fatal condition, but it is preventable.”
Dr Okowa further clarified that the incubation period for rabies can range from three weeks to three months. Reporting any suspicions of rabies to the nearest hospital promptly can assist in preventing deaths.
To combat the outbreak, Mr Perez Omoun, the State Commissioner for Agriculture and Natural Resources, inaugurated a vaccine ceremony as part of this year’s Rabies campaign in Delta State. He proudly announced that over 6,000 dogs had already been vaccinated this year. The state remains committed to raising public awareness about rabies, even in rural communities, with the ultimate goal of eradicating the rabies virus throughout the state.
