The Enugu State Government has raised alarm over a rabies outbreak in Igbo-Etiti Local Government Area, urging residents to take urgent preventive measures to curb the spread of the deadly disease.
The Commissioner for Agriculture and Agro-Industrialisation, Patrick Ubru, issued the warning in a public notice, stressing that rabies remains highly fatal once symptoms begin to manifest.
Rabies is a life-threatening viral infection transmitted mainly through bites or saliva from infected animals, particularly dogs.
Mr Ubru advised pet owners to immediately vaccinate their animals and ensure they are properly confined, warning against allowing pets to roam freely.
“Members of the public should avoid contact with stray or unfamiliar animals,” he cautioned.
Residents were also urged to promptly report animals showing unusual behaviour such as aggression, excessive salivation, or paralysis to the nearest veterinary authorities.
“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,” he said.
The commissioner further called on community leaders to intensify public awareness campaigns, particularly in rural areas, to reduce exposure and prevent further spread.
“The ministry is actively working with relevant authorities to contain the outbreak and protect public health,” he stated.
The development comes amid renewed concerns over rabies in Nigeria, where the disease—classified as a neglected tropical infection—continues to pose a serious threat, especially in underserved communities.
According to the World Health Organization, rabies claims about 59,000 lives globally each year, with the vast majority of cases occurring in Africa and Asia, and children among the most vulnerable.
