Online Reporter
Josephine Nyamwanza
Correspondent
THE Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (SPCA) has raised alarm over an increase in reported rabies cases, urging residents to vaccinate their pets and seek immediate medical attention after animal bites.
The surge in cases has been linked to unvaccinated dogs roaming residential areas across the province, posing a serious public health threat, especially among schoolchildren.
A recent Weekly Disease Surveillance Report from the Ministry of Health and Child Care recorded 583 dog bite cases and no deaths were reported.
Of the reported cases, 122 (20,9 percent) were bitten by vaccinated dogs, 105 (18 percent) by unvaccinated dogs and 356 (61,1 percent) by dogs of unknown status.
The highest number of dog bite cases were reported from Mashonaland West (89) and Masvingo Province (84). The cumulative figures for dog bites are 19 458 cases and zero deaths.
Speaking in an interview this week, SPCA inspector, Mr William Newengo, urged residents to vaccinate their dogs and cats regularly to curb the spread of the deadly disease.
Rabies is a fatal viral disease that affects the nervous system of mammals, including humans. Symptoms of rabies include fever, headache, and flu-like symptoms, progressing to agitation, aggression, confusion, paralysis, and eventually, death.
Early symptoms can also include numbness, tingling, or pain around the bite wound. Treatment of rabies in humans involves immediate Post-Exposure Prophylaxis (PEP), including Rabies Immune Globulin and a series of Rabies Vaccination shots to prevent infection and death.
“We urge residents of Mutare and surrounding areas to vaccinate their dogs against rabies at local veterinary centres, which offer the service for US$1, or at private veterinary clinics. This is crucial in preventing the escalating cases of rabies in the province.
“As a stakeholder responsible for ensuring proper animal management, we are alarmed by the rising incidence of rabies in Mutare. The upward trend indicates that pets are not being vaccinated, compromising public health safety. We strongly advocate for corrective action to address this issue and ensure public health safety in the city and surrounding area,” said Mr Newengo.
He further warned that rabies, once symptoms appear, has no cure and is fatal in both humans and animals.
“Rabies is a deadly disease with no cure once symptoms manifest, proving fatal in both humans and animals, which emphasise the importance of prompt vaccination and prevention measures. Immediate action is crucial to prevent further outbreaks and guarantee public health,” he added.
Mutare City Council spokesperson, Mr Charles Sadondo said they are actively addressing the issue of stray dogs through a multifaceted approach, including night dog traps to capture and transfer them to the SPCA for safekeeping.
“Health spotters are conducting inspections throughout the city. They issue tickets to residents whose premises do not meet dog-keeping requirements. They also issue tickets to those with unvaccinated dogs and owners who fail to keep vicious dogs in secure environments.
“To complement enforcement, awareness campaigns and health education programmes are being carried out by health spotters and health department officials. Additionally, radio programmes are being held to educate the public on responsible dog ownership and the issues surrounding stray dogs.
Dog licensing is also being done to ensure compliance with dog-keeping requirements. This is a crucial measure in reducing the number of stray dogs on our streets. Premises without perimeter walls are not suitable for keeping dogs. We therefore encourage our residents to abide by city by-laws to ensure that we reduce the number of stray dogs on our streets,” said Mr Sadondo.
Rusape Town Council has issued a warning to residents and stake holders regarding the growing concern over stray dogs in the area.
The council has threatened to eliminate all stray dogs that pose a threat to human safety.
RTC spokesperson, Mr Leonard Makumana said the move is part of its efforts to maintain public health and safety, and residents are encouraged to cooperate in keeping their dogs under control. The issue of stray dogs has been a persistent problem in Rusape, with residents complaining about dogs roaming the streets, messing gardens, and even attacking people.
“We wish to inform our valued residents and stakeholders that there is growing concern over stray dogs. Dog ownership comes with certain responsibilities.
If a dog becomes stray, it necessitates corresponding action. Residents who keep dogs must ensure they have adequate security measures in place. This week, several reports were received regarding stray dogs attacking or frightening school-going children, particularly in the morning. Rusape Town Council will take immediate action to address this situation. Let us work together to guarantee the safety of our children from these stray dogs,” he said.
