A rabies outbreak has been confirmed in the Ajah area of Lagos State, sparking concerns over public health and safety.
The Nigerian Veterinary Medical Association (NVMA) Lagos State Chapter announced the outbreak in a public health alert, following laboratory confirmation by the National Veterinary Research Institute (NVRI) in Vom, Plateau State.
According to Dr. Ofua Mark, Chairman of the NVMA Lagos State Chapter, the outbreak is linked to the increasing presence of unqualified individuals posing as veterinarians and administering vaccines improperly.
He expressed serious concern over the abuse of the rabies vaccine, which is often mishandled due to lack of regulatory enforcement.
He said NVMA has notified relevant authorities, including the Lagos State Ministry of Agriculture and the Nigeria Centre for Disease Control and Prevention (NCDC). In response, the government has launched containment efforts, including contact tracing, isolation protocols, and intensified surveillance in the affected area.
Rabies is a fatal but preventable viral disease primarily spread through bites from infected animals, most commonly dogs.
He added that the NVMA is urging residents to exercise caution, vaccinate their pets through licensed veterinarians, and report any suspicious animal behavior or bites immediately.
The association emphasized the need for stronger regulation and enforcement to eliminate quack practices that threaten both animal and human lives.
The NVMA reaffirmed its commitment to safeguarding public health in collaboration with state and federal agencies, pledging continuous monitoring, public sensitization, and accurate updates as the situation unfolds.
