As Ogun State joined the world to celebrate the 2023 World Rabies Day, the State government has promised to intensify the vaccination of animals and humans that are at risk of being infected, disclosing that it has received 10,951 doses of anti-rabies vaccines for animals, and 845 human doses from the Federal Government towards combating the disease.
The Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Agriculture, Mr. Samuel Adeogun who disclosed this during the 2023 celebration, with the theme "All for one, One Health for All" held at Abeokuta Grammar school, Idi-Aba, Abeokuta, said the effort was in conjunction with the Federal government and Nigeria Veterinary Medical Association (NVMA)
He said the state government would continue to partner with relevant stakeholders in the animal health industry especially NVMA, enjoining those who have dogs as pets, as well as hunters, to get their dogs vaccinated so as to curtail the spread of the disease.
"The vaccination will be free of charge at both the public and private veterinary clinics until the end of the year", he said
The Director, Veterinary Services, Dr. Taiwo Jolaoso, explained that World Rabies Day was to further create awareness about the disease, saying that the importance of the vaccine cannot be over-emphasised, as it remains the only way to prevent rabies in line with the global target of eradicating it by 2030.
According to him, out of the 845 human doses received for those at risk, some has been given to veterinary doctors, veterinary teaching hospital, Department of Veterinary Services while hunters will be given as well.
In his lecture, a Senior Veterinary Doctor in the State, Dr. Ayopo Aderounmu described rabies as a viral zoonotic disease that affects animals and humans, saying everyone needed to participate in eradication by seeking prompt medical attention and recognising the symptoms and signs.
The highlight of the event was the oratory competition organised for secondary schools to mark the year 2023 World Rabies Day, which saw Abeokuta Girls' Grammar School, St. Peters College and African Church Grammar School emerge first, second, and third positions respectively.
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