FCTA targets 20,000 dogs, cats in rabies vaccination drive

The Federal Capital Territory Administration (FCTA) has launched a two-week mass rabies vaccination campaign targeting between 15,000 and 20,000 dogs and cats in the territory. The initiative aims to halt the spread of rabies following reported cases in Gwagwalada and Kwali area councils.

Mandate Secretary Sulieman Ango led the campaign in Gwagwalada, stating that over 100 veterinary officers are mobilized to various locations across the FCT. Ango is confident that vaccinating 15,000 to 20,000 animals will create a protective barrier against the virus, noting that two weeks should suffice for their team to cover the scope.

Residents are advised to remain calm and cooperate with the veterinary teams during the daily vaccination sessions at designated centers across the six area councils. FCT Minister Nyesom Wike's quick approval and support for the initiative were commended.

Director of Veterinary Services Dr Karnak Dandam emphasized that rabies is a 100% fatal disease for humans once clinical symptoms appear, but it is entirely preventable through animal vaccination. More than 12,000 vaccine doses are currently available, and veterinary teams are working tirelessly to vaccinate both owned and stray dogs and cats. Some communities like Kuje and Bassa have already initiated vaccinations due to the outbreak.

Residents expressed satisfaction with the free vaccination exercise, with dog owners Nathan Yusuf and Bashir Yusuf praising the FCTA for providing the service at no cost. The FCTA confirmed eight rabies cases and two deaths in the territory on July 15, urging residents to vaccinate their pets to prevent the disease's spread.