Seven people have died of rabies in the Upper East Region this year, out of nine suspected cases recorded, according to regional health authorities.
The alarming figures were disclosed during an event to mark World Rabies Day, held in Bolgatanga on Saturday under the theme “Breaking Rabies Boundaries.”
According to Collins Yin, a Health Promotion Officer with the Upper East Regional Health Directorate, the Bolgatanga Municipal recorded three suspected rabies cases, with one fatality.
In Bongo District, all 3 suspected cases resulted in deaths. Similarly, the Garu District recorded 2 suspected cases, both proving fatal.
The Nabdam District also reported a single case of rabies, which resulted in the individual’s death.
He urged the public to vaccinate their pets, particularly dogs, against rabies to prevent further tragedies. “We can prevent these unnecessary deaths if people ensure their dogs are vaccinated.”
Dr. Henry Nii Ayi Anang, Regional Veterinary Officer, reported that from January to September 2023, 5,410 dogs and 1,631 cats had been vaccinated in the Upper East Region.
However, he called for more action, noting that many remain unvaccinated with an estimated 100,000 dogs in the region.
“There is a need for concerted efforts to raise awareness and increase vaccination rates. Rabies is a deadly disease, and we must take every step to protect ourselves and our animals,” Dr. Anang said.
The event, organized by The Light Foundation with support from USAID and fhi360, brought together health and veterinary officials to discuss strategies for eradicating rabies.
Sheikh Ali Abubakar Napari, CEO of The Light Foundation, lamented the widespread ignorance about the importance of vaccinating pets.
“Many pet owners do not understand how dangerous rabies is. We must do more to educate the public and ensure every dog, cat, and pet is vaccinated,” Sheikh Napari stated, pledging his organisation’s continued efforts to eliminate rabies by 2030.
Rabies, a viral disease transmitted through the bite or scratch of an infected animal, remains a significant public health threat.
Without timely vaccination after exposure, the disease is almost always fatal.
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