Hussaini Kafi in Kano
The Adamawa State government has confirmed a rabies outbreak, with cats being particularly affected.
Commissioner for Livestock and Aquaculture Development, Tijjani Maksha, announced the development in Yola, the state capital, reassuring residents that measures are being taken to control the spread.
Rabies, a deadly viral disease affecting both animals and humans, is primarily transmitted through bites from infected animals.
Maksha urged pet owners, especially those with cats and dogs, to vaccinate their animals at approved veterinary clinics. He revealed that the Ministry of Livestock and Aquaculture Development is awaiting approval for a statewide vaccination campaign, prioritizing feline vaccinations.
Laboratory tests conducted at the National Veterinary Laboratory in Plateau State showed that 9 out of 19 sampled cats tested positive, signalling a nearly 50% infection rate among the feline population.
Dr. Bathilomeu Nyalas, Director of Veterinary Services, confirmed that three rabies-related deaths have occurred in 2024.
To manage the outbreak, surveillance efforts have been intensified across all 21 Local Government Areas.
Veterinary teams have been deployed statewide to monitor the situation and implement control measures, ensuring the safety of both animals and residents.
