Public health experts have urged increased awareness, mass dog vaccination and responsible pet ownership after eight rabies cases and two deaths were confirmed in Gwagwalada and Kwali Area Councils of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT).

The experts warned that although rabies was almost always fatal once symptoms developed, it was entirely preventable through routine vaccination of animals and prompt medical treatment after exposure.

In a statement issued on Saturday in Abuja, the War Against Rabies Foundation (WARF) expressed deep concern over the outbreak, describing it as a stark reminder of the need for collective action to prevent further infections.

The foundation said it was deeply concerned by the recent confirmation of eight rabies cases in the FCT, including two reported deaths following bites from infected dogs in the Gwagwalada and Kwali area councils.

It said rabies remained one of the deadliest yet most preventable diseases, adding that the incident underscored the urgent need for increased awareness, responsible pet ownership and collective action to protect communities.

WARF urged the public to vaccinate their dogs and cats against rabies, avoid contact with stray or unfamiliar animals, and report any animal bites immediately to seek prompt medical attention.

According to the foundation, prevention remains the most effective strategy against rabies; increased awareness, vaccination and responsible action are essential to protecting families and achieving a rabies-free Nigeria.

The organisation also urged pet owners to ensure their animals received routine anti-rabies vaccination and encouraged residents to cooperate with veterinary and public health authorities by reporting suspected cases.

Residents of the affected communities called on the FCT Administration to intensify vaccination campaigns, strengthen surveillance and step up efforts to control stray dog populations to prevent further spread of the disease.

Health experts said rabies was transmitted through the saliva of infected animals, usually through bites or scratches, adding that immediate washing of wounds with soap and water, followed by prompt medical attention, could significantly reduce the risk of infection.

They stressed that once clinical symptoms appeared, rabies was almost always fatal, making prevention and early treatment critical.

The FCT Administration recently confirmed eight rabies cases and two deaths in the Gwagwalada and Kwali area councils following bites from infected dogs, prompting renewed calls for pet vaccination and prompt treatment of animal bites.

(NAN)