Suspected rabid dog bites 18 people in Kano

At least 18 people have been bitten by a suspected rabid dog in Garko Local Government Area of Kano State, according to the Nigerian Forest Security Service (NFSS). The NFSS Garko Division has launched a search for the infected canine and two additional dogs believed to be carrying the disease. The incident was initially reported to the Garko office after the dog attacked 11 individuals in Garko town, subsequently spreading to neighboring communities where seven more individuals were bitten.

NFSS spokesperson, CSF Usman Abdullahi Umar, stated that the presence of these three dogs poses a risk of rabies transmission among residents and other animals. Officers, led by Divisional Forest Officer Auwalu Muhammad, have been dispatched to the affected areas to locate and neutralize the suspected infected dogs. The NFSS aims to curb further attacks and minimize the risk of rabies spreading in the region.

They have urged residents to remain vigilant and report stray dogs or animals displaying rabies symptoms to the nearest NFSS office or security agency. NFSS officers stated that the mad dog has reportedly infected other dogs as well, and residents have been advised to seek immediate medical attention if bitten by a dog or exposed to a rabies-suspected animal.

The search for the infected dogs will continue until the threat is under control in the affected communities.