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Food supply

Rabies Outbreak Confirmed in Benue State, North Central Nigeria

Strategic Insights

— 1 min read

The Benue State government has confirmed an outbreak of rabies, a deadly neglected tropical viral disease, in North Central Nigeria. At least 4 cases have been confirmed, with 24 others currently under investigation. To combat the outbreak, the Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security has initiated measures to raise awareness among the public, including media sensitization campaigns, and has taken precautionary steps such as intensifying surveillance activities and restricting the movement of dogs in the state.

Key Takeaways:

  • At least 4 confirmed cases of rabies have been reported in Benue State, with 24 others under investigation.
  • The Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security has initiated measures to raise awareness among the public, including media sensitization campaigns.
  • Precautionary steps have been taken, including the intensification of surveillance activities by the quarantine unit targeting new animals coming into the state.
  • A ban has been placed on the movement of dogs in the state to prevent further spread of the disease.
  • Owners of dogs have been directed to ensure that their pets are vaccinated.
  • A mass vaccination campaign for dogs is planned.
  • Parents have been urged to advise their children against interacting with dogs, particularly within this period.
  • The Ministry is coordinating with neighboring states to prevent the spread of rabies across borders.
  • Efforts are being made to secure funding for the vaccination campaign.

Statistics:

  • At least 4 confirmed cases of rabies have been reported in Benue State.
  • 24 others are currently under investigation.
  • The Ministry has intensified surveillance activities in the state.
  • A ban has been placed on the movement of dogs in the state.
  • The Ministry plans to vaccinate dogs in high-risk areas once funding is secured.

Sources:

  • Voice of Nigeria (29 October 2025)
  • Acting Director of Livestock Services in the State Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security, Dr. Gabriel Amase.

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