Five residents of Malam Matari community on the outskirts of Damaturu, Yobe State, are receiving medical care after they were bitten by a dog confirmed to be infected with rabies.
The incident also affected livestock, prompting an emergency response from the Yobe State Pilot Livestock Development Programme to contain the outbreak and reduce the risk of further infections.
Authorities launch emergency response
Programme Manager, Dr. Bulama Maina Yaro, who led the intervention, said the affected residents have started the recommended five-dose post-exposure prophylaxis (PEP) vaccination and are responding well to treatment.
He noted that the rapid deployment of the programme’s response team helped prevent the situation from escalating.
According to Dr. Yaro, the infected animals linked to the incident were safely disposed of in line with veterinary health regulations.
Livestock safely buried to prevent spread
Officials confirmed that two goats bitten by the rabid dog were buried following approved veterinary public health procedures to minimise the risk of transmitting the virus.
The measure forms part of efforts to prevent additional infections among animals and humans within the affected community.
Residents sensitised on rabies prevention
Following the attack, veterinary officials carried out a public awareness campaign in Malam Matari to educate residents on rabies prevention and response.
The exercise focused on recognising symptoms of rabies in animals, the importance of seeking immediate medical treatment after a dog bite, and practical steps to reduce the spread of the disease.
The sensitisation campaign was led by Veterinary Officer Dr. Yau Buba Wakil.
Health and veterinary authorities have urged residents to promptly report suspected rabid animals and seek immediate medical attention after any animal bite.