Rabies Alert in Adamawa As Dog Bite Cases Surge: Authorities Launch Urgent Control Measures.
A wave of fear has swept through parts of Adamawa State following a sharp increase in dog bites, raising concerns over a possible rabies outbreak across several communities.
Health officials have issued a public health warning, citing a rise in aggressive and unprovoked attacks by dogs and cats in areas such as Lainde, Kofare, Yolde Pate, and Haying Gada.
Dr Bartholomew Nyalas, Director of Veterinary Services and Epidemiologist at the State Ministry of Livestock and Aquaculture, confirmed that three people lost their lives last year due to rabies-related complications. He described the current situation as “worrisome” but assured residents that authorities are responding decisively.
“The current trend is alarming. However, we are on top of it and are handling the situation with the utmost seriousness,” Dr Nyalas said.
Last week, the state’s Commissioner for Livestock and Aquaculture, Tijjani Maksha, officially declared a rabies outbreak, noting that cats are particularly affected this time around.
Dr Nyalas further revealed that during a national monkeypox surveillance campaign in the state capital, 19 stray cats were captured by federal health authorities. Disturbingly, laboratory results showed that nine of the animals tested positive for the rabies virus—almost 50 per cent of the sample.
“That’s a significant indication that we have a rabies reservoir in our neighbourhoods. It’s a dangerous web. You never know which infected animal might bite someone next,” he warned.
In response, the state government has commenced a series of control and prevention measures. One dog is currently being quarantined at Bannex Veterinary Hospital, while public sensitisation efforts have intensified. These include radio jingles, flyers, and town-wide announcements urging pet owners to restrain their animals at all times.
“All dogs must be chained or caged,” Dr Nyalas advised. “The Ministry of Environment has been tasked with managing stray animals, but it’s a tough challenge without an executive order to neutralise them.”
He added that a compliance deadline would soon be issued, and failure to adhere may prompt stronger actions from authorities.
Although no hospital admissions have been reported so far this year, several individuals bitten by dogs have been advised to seek immediate post-exposure treatment and vaccination.
Looking ahead, the state ministry is preparing for a mass vaccination campaign targeting all domestic dogs and cats across Adamawa. Dr Nyalas stressed that this step is vital in cutting off the rabies transmission chain.
“Vaccinating the animals is our best bet. We urge residents to stay away from stray animals, report any bites immediately, and follow the safety guidelines we’ve put in place. Together, we can prevent a wider public health crisis,” he stated.
As the state ramps up its response, communities are encouraged to remain vigilant and cooperative to help contain the potential outbreak.
