Bauchi State Sees Dramatic Drop in Rabies Cases, But Dog Bites Remain High

By Muhammad Sani Muazu

Bauchi State has seen a reduction in the number of confirmed rabies cases in 2024 compared to the previous year, according to Dr. Ibrahim Mohamed Bello, Director of Veterinary Services in the State Ministry of Agriculture. However, the alarming increase in dog bite incidents remains a serious concern.

In an exclusive interview, Dr. Bello revealed that while Bauchi State recorded over 20 confirmed rabies cases in 2023, only two cases have been confirmed this year—one in Itas Gadau and another in Bauchi Local Government Area. Both cases were confirmed through testing at the National Veterinary Research Institute (NVRI).

Despite the reduction in confirmed rabies cases, Dr. Bello emphasized the rising number of dog bites across the state. “From January to date, we have recorded about 199 cases of dog bites, out of which 2 were confirmed positive for rabies,” he explained. He noted that Bauchi Local Government Area accounted for 132 of the total dog bite incidents, describing the situation as “scary.”

Dr. Bello stressed that not every dog bite is a result of rabies, explaining that many bites occur due to other factors such as territorial behavior or provocation. However, he cautioned that rabies remains a deadly zoonotic disease that poses a significant risk to public health.

“Rabies is one of the most dangerous diseases in the world,” Dr. Bello warned. “Once a person starts showing clinical signs after being bitten by a rabid dog, survival chances are almost non-existent. It is crucial that we work together to eradicate this disease by 2030, not only in Bauchi State but across Nigeria.”

In response to the threat, Bauchi State has taken proactive measures to combat rabies. The state appointed a Rabies Desk Officer three years ago, becoming the first state in Nigeria to do so. The veterinary services department is also working closely with the State Ministry of Health under the One Health initiative, which fosters collaboration between the human and veterinary healthcare sectors.

“We conduct mass rabies vaccination campaigns every year and encourage dog owners, especially those who can afford it, to bring their pets to veterinary hospitals for vaccination,” Dr. Bello said. “We also carry out extensive advocacy, reaching out to community and religious leaders to raise awareness about the dangers of rabies and how to prevent it.”

As part of his efforts to improve the state’s response to rabies, Dr. Bello recently visited the Area Veterinary Clinic in Bauchi for an interactive session with clinicians and paramedics to ensure proper handling of vaccines.

The Director called on the public to take the threat of rabies seriously and urged dog owners to ensure their pets are vaccinated. He highlighted the importance of collective action in fighting the disease and reaffirmed the state’s commitment to eradicating rabies by 2030.

In conclusion, Dr. Bello expressed hope that with sustained efforts, public education, and widespread vaccination, Bauchi State will lead the way in eliminating rabies, setting an example for other states in Nigeria.