The Enugu State Government has confirmed an outbreak of rabies in Igbo Etiti Local Government Area, raising concerns over the spread of the deadly viral disease and urging residents to take precautionary measures.
The State Commissioner for Agriculture and Agro-Industrialisation, Patrick Ubru, disclosed this in a public notice issued on Tuesday, March 31, 2026, warning of the high fatality rate associated with the infection.
According to the commissioner, rabies is a highly fatal viral disease that affects both animals and humans, and is primarily transmitted through the bite or saliva of infected animals, particularly dogs.
He emphasised that once clinical symptoms appear in an infected person or animal, the disease is almost always fatal, prompting the government to introduce urgent containment measures to curb its spread.
As part of its response, the state government directed all dog owners and pet keepers to vaccinate their animals without delay. Pet owners were also advised to confine their animals and prevent them from roaming freely in public spaces.
Residents were cautioned to avoid contact with stray or unfamiliar animals, especially within the affected local government area.
The Ministry of Agriculture and Agro-Industrialisation also outlined safety steps for individuals exposed to suspected rabid animals. It advised that anyone bitten or scratched should immediately wash the wound thoroughly with mild soap under running water for at least 10 minutes and seek urgent medical attention at the nearest health facility.
In addition, residents were urged to report animals exhibiting unusual behaviour such as aggression, excessive salivation, paralysis, or abnormal movements to the nearest veterinary authority.
Ubru assured the public that the state’s Veterinary Services Department is working closely with relevant stakeholders to contain the outbreak and safeguard public health.
The government further called on community leaders to intensify awareness efforts, stressing that public education remains critical in preventing human fatalities.
Residents were encouraged to report suspected cases and seek further information through the State Veterinary Services Department in Enugu.
