Korede Abdullah in Lagos
The Lagos State Chapter of the Nigerian Veterinary Medical Association (NVMA) has confirmed a rabies outbreak in the Ajah area, following laboratory tests conducted by the National Veterinary Research Institute (NVRI) in Vom, Plateau State.
In a health alert issued by NVMA Chairman on Saturday, Dr. Ofua Mark, said the outbreak was traced to “unqualified individuals posing as veterinarians,” who are improperly administering rabies vaccines.
“Dog breeders administering vaccines themselves without veterinary oversight pose a grave risk to public health,” Dr. Mark cautioned, expressing alarm over widespread vaccine misuse.
In response, the NVMA has alerted relevant authorities, including the Lagos State Ministry of Agriculture and the Nigeria Centre for Disease Control and Prevention (NCDC).
Containment measures are now underway, involving contact tracing, isolation of potentially exposed animals, and heightened surveillance across the Ajah-Lekki corridor.
Rabies, a deadly yet preventable viral disease, is primarily transmitted through bites from infected animals — especially dogs — making vaccination and early intervention crucial.
Dr. Mark urged residents to vaccinate pets only through licensed veterinary professionals and to report suspicious animal behavior or bites immediately.
He emphasized that while the outbreak is being controlled, greater public enlightenment and regulation are needed to curb quack practices.
“With collective vigilance and professional care, a rabies-free Lagos is possible,” he concluded, reinforcing the NVMA’s commitment to continuous monitoring and public education to eliminate rabies threats.
