Yobe Rabies Scare: Five Hospitalised After Dog Attack in Malam Matari

In the Malam Matari community, located on the outskirts of Damaturu, Yobe State, five individuals are currently undergoing medical treatment following an incident where a rabid dog attacked both residents and livestock. This alarming event has prompted local authorities to initiate an urgent response aimed at curbing the potential spread of rabies within the area.

The Yobe State Pilot Livestock Development Programme quickly mobilised its Rapid Response Team. Dr. Bulama Maina Yaro, the Programme Manager, who spearheaded the operation, confirmed that the team’s swift action led to the safe disposal and burial of two goats that had been bitten by the infected canine. Dr. Yaro emphasised that this immediate intervention was crucial to prevent further transmission of the deadly virus and to safeguard residents from potential fatalities.

According to Dr. Yaro, the five victims are responding positively to their treatment and are currently receiving the recommended five-dose post-exposure prophylaxis (PEP) vaccine regimen. He stated, "The situation is under control. The victims are already receiving proper medical attention, while the infected livestock were deeply buried to eliminate the risk of further transmission.”

This emergency operation was a collaborative effort, involving the Yobe State Ministry of Livestock, represented by its Director of Veterinary Public Health, Abdullahi Maiwada. Additionally, the Primary Health Department of the Damaturu Local Government Area offered logistical support, with its Chief Sanitation Officer, Malam Ibrahim Aliyu, playing a key role.

To bolster preventative measures against future outbreaks, the response team also conducted a community sensitisation drive in Malam Matari. Veterinary Officer Dr. Yau Buba Wakil led this awareness session, educating community members on the symptoms associated with rabies, the necessary immediate actions to take after a dog bite, and practical strategies to protect both humans and animals from the disease.

Dr. Yaro extended his appreciation to Governor Mai Mala Buni’s administration for providing the essential resources, vaccines, and medical assistance that facilitated the rapid containment of the outbreak. He concluded by urging all residents to promptly report any suspected cases of rabies to the veterinary rapid response team in Damaturu for immediate intervention.