A veterinarian and public health expert in Maiduguri, Borno State, Phenies Pola, has cautioned residents against dog bites.

He said that such a development would cause rabies.

Mr Pola gave the warning in an interview on Wednesday in Maiduguri.

He described rabies as a fatal viral infection posing a serious threat to both humans and animals.

According to him, rabies is a deadly viral disease that attacks the central nervous system of dogs and other mammals, including humans, and is almost always fatal once clinical symptoms appear.

He said that the disease was commonly transmitted through the bite, scratch, or saliva of an infected animal, particularly dogs, which remained the major cause of human infections.

Mr Pola urged pet owners to ensure that their dogs and cats were vaccinated regularly against rabies, noting that vaccination remained the most effective way of preventing the disease.

“Residents should avoid contact with stray animals and immediately seek medical attention after any dog bite or scratch.

“The affected area should be washed thoroughly with soap and clean water before reporting to the nearest health facility,” he said.

The expert also called on community leaders, schools and religious organisations to intensify public enlightenment campaigns to increase awareness on the dangers associated with rabies.

He, however, stressed the need for collective action by government agencies, veterinary professionals and residents to eliminate dog-mediated rabies and safeguard public health.

Mr Pola advised residents to report animals suspected of having rabies to veterinary authorities for prompt investigation and control measures. 

(NAN)