Blueblood Veterinary Services has recommended stronger integrated surveillance linking veterinary and human health systems to prevent and eradicate rabies and its avoidable human deaths in Nigeria.

Blueblood Vet director Bala Muhammed made the recommendation in an interview in Abuja on Monday to mark World Rabies Day.

Mr Muhammed said the day should be commemorated with a renewed commitment to preventing every avoidable rabies death, rather than as a day of remembrance. He advised that every dog bite should be reported, investigated and used as an opportunity to prevent further transmission.

The director emphasised that sustained mass vaccination of dogs must remain at the centre of rabies control to break rabies transmission at its source and protect the entire communities. According to him, Nigeria must move from responding to outbreaks to preventing them.

Mr Muhammed identified rabies as one of the world’s most tragic public-health paradoxes, with almost 100 per cent fatality once clinical symptoms appear. He said it was therefore imperative that post-exposure prophylaxis be available and accessible.

”Anyone bitten or scratched by a potentially rabid animal should immediately wash the wound thoroughly with soap and running water and seek urgent medical care. No Nigerian should die because lifesaving treatment is unavailable, unaffordable or delayed.

“The global zero by 30 goal to end human deaths from dog-mediated rabies by 2030 is ambitious, but achievable with sustained political commitment and community action. Responsible dog ownership, vaccination, avoiding contact with unfamiliar animals and promptly reporting bites can save lives. Schools, traditional institutions, religious organisations and the media can help make this knowledge widespread,” he said.

Mr Muhammed, who described the theme as particularly relevant to Nigeria, emphasised that rabies does not respect the boundaries between human health, animal health and communities. He noted that preventing it requires veterinarians, medical doctors or human medics, government agencies, dog owners, community leaders, schools, the media, and international partners to work together.

(NAN)