World Rabies Day: Jos community receives free vaccinations for pets

In commemoration of World Rabies Day 2022, Jos witnessed a significant initiative aimed at safeguarding the health of both animals and humans.

The event, held in the city, included the provision of free rabies vaccinations for dogs and cats, among other activities. Dr. Oludotun Oladele, Acting Director of the Veterinary Teaching Hospital at the University of Jos, inaugurated the event, urging the university community and residents of Jos to capitalise on the opportunity for free vaccinations to protect their beloved pets.

During an exclusive interview with Dr Naomi Danjuma-Audu, a prominent figure in the veterinary field and a lecturer at the University of Jos, key insights were shared regarding the importance of the initiative and the significance of rabies prevention.

Dr Danjuma-Audu, known for her commitment to raising awareness about rabies, highlighted the necessity of such campaigns, citing a previous initiative in 2018 where primary schools in Jos were targeted.

However, due to the COVID-19 pandemic and subsequent restrictions, similar efforts were paused in 2020.

Rabies, as described by Dr Danjuma-Audu, is a lethal viral disease affecting the brain and nerves, commonly transmitted through the saliva of infected animals, including dogs, bats, and raccoons.

The severity of rabies underscores the importance of seeking immediate medical attention following exposure to the virus.

Emphasising the zoonotic nature of rabies, Dr. Danjuma-Audu reiterated that the disease can be transmitted between animals and humans, thus posing a significant public health risk.

In addressing vaccination protocols for dogs, Dr. Danjuma-Audu advised administering the first rabies vaccine at three months of age, followed by an annual booster shot thereafter.

This routine vaccination regimen is crucial to mitigating the risk of rabies transmission.

To pet owners, Dr. Danjuma-Audu offered a stern reminder of the fatal consequences of rabies and stressed the importance of regular vaccination visits to veterinary doctors.

Additionally, she urged prompt reporting of any incidents of animal bites to veterinarians, as timely intervention can prevent fatalities associated with rabies exposure.

The World Rabies Day celebration in Jos served as a poignant reminder of the collaborative efforts required to combat this preventable yet deadly disease.

Through community engagement and proactive measures such as free vaccinations, strides are being made towards achieving a rabies-free future for both animals and humans alike.