Five residents of Malam Matari community on the outskirts of Damaturu, Yobe State, have been hospitalised after being bitten by a dog confirmed to be infected with rabies.
The incident has raised fresh concerns over public health safety and the control of animal-borne diseases in the state.
According to reports, the attack also affected livestock in the area, prompting swift intervention from the Yobe State Pilot Livestock Development Programme.
A Rapid Response Team was immediately deployed to contain the situation and prevent further spread of the virus.
The Programme Manager, Dr. Bulama Maina Yaro, who supervised the emergency response, confirmed that the affected individuals are currently receiving treatment and responding well.
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He noted that they have commenced the recommended five-dose post-exposure prophylaxis (PEP) vaccination.
Dr. Yaro assured residents that the situation is under control, adding that all necessary containment measures have been implemented.
“The victims are receiving
proper medical attention, and the infected animals have been safely buried in line with veterinary public health guidelines to stop further transmission,” he stated.
He further disclosed that two goats attacked during the incident were also safely disposed of to eliminate any risk of spreading the disease.
As part of ongoing efforts to safeguard the community, veterinary officials conducted an awareness campaign to educate residents on the dangers of rabies, how to identify symptoms in animals, and the importance of seeking immediate medical care after any animal bite.
The sensitisation exercise was led by Veterinary Officer, Dr. Yau Buba Wakil.
Authorities continue to urge residents to remain vigilant and report any suspected cases of rabies promptly.
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