Wenchi: Veterinary Department records 97 rabies cases in 2024

Veterinary Department at Wenchi Municipal directorate of Food and Agriculture have recorded 97 cases as at September this year.

The alarming figures were disclosed in a sensitisation programme at the Wenchi Central Seventh Day Adventist (SDA) Church as part of activities to mark World Rabies Day.

This year’s celebration was under the theme ” Vaccinate All Dogs Breaking Rabies Boundaries”

Animal Health Officer at veterinary department of Wenchi Municipal directorate of Food and Agriculture , Owusu Hayford Gyan further explained that in 2023 the department recorded 112 rabies cases, and in 2022 84 cases of rabies were recorded with one death.

He urged public to vaccinate their pets, particularly dogs, against rabies.

Hayford Gyan added that from January to December,2023, 84 dogs, 18 monkeys and 3 cats has been vaccinated in the Wenchi Municipality while 2,166 dogs has been vaccinated from January to September 2024.

Rabies,a viral disease transmitted through the bite or scratch of an infected animal, remains a significant public health treat.

According to the animal health officer the incubation period for rabies vaccination is 90 days, without vaccination after the incubation period the disease is always fatal.

Source: Nana Anfreh Damanata