VEMTAG organizes free dog vaccination in Navrongo to curb rising rabies cases
Iddrissu Yahaya Mahamadu, Chairman of VEMTAG in the Upper East Region, explained that the initiative forms part of the association’s 41st-week celebration, which includes a nationwide rabies vaccination campaign.
The Upper East Regional branch of the Veterinary Medical Technologists Association of Ghana (VEMTAG) has organized a free vaccination exercise for dogs in Navrongo as part of efforts to curb the rising cases of rabies in the region.
The exercise, held on Wednesday November 12, at the Navrongo Veterinary Office and the Navro-Pio’s Palace, saw scores of residents bringing their dogs to be vaccinated.
Speaking to the media during the exercise, Iddrissu Yahaya Mahamadu, Chairman of VEMTAG in the Upper East Region, explained that the initiative forms part of the association’s 41st-week celebration, which includes a nationwide rabies vaccination campaign.
“As part of our 41st-week celebration, we are embarking on vaccination exercises across the country. In the Upper East Region, we chose Navrongo in the Kassena-Nankana Municipality because data shows a surge in rabies cases here.” He said.
“There have been reported cases of human deaths resulting from rabies, and that is why we are conducting this exercise, to create awareness and encourage people to vaccinate their dogs and cats. Rabies is becoming a serious public health concern.” He added.
Mahamadu disclosed that eight districts in the region have so far recorded rabies outbreaks, with hundreds of animal infections and several human deaths reported between January and November. He called for collective action to stop the spread of the disease.
“In the region, we have been informed that eight districts have recorded outbreaks, with cases numbering in the hundreds since January. Sadly, we’ve also had some human deaths. We need to act together to stop this trend.” He emphasized.
He urged pet owners to take full responsibility for their animals, warning that neglecting vaccination due to cost could endanger both pets and humans.
The Assembly Member for the Nogsenia Electoral Area, Teddy John Kwolaga Adda, also underscored the significance of the exercise, particularly for urban communities like Nogsenia.
“This anti-rabies vaccination is very important for the people of Nogsenia because rabies can easily be transmitted to humans. With the number of dogs roaming around in this area, vaccinating them helps prevent dog bites from turning fatal.”
Some participants commended VEMTAG for the initiative, describing it as life-saving.
“I don’t joke with my dog’s vaccination. Every year, I make sure my dog is vaccinated. I just got mine done today, and I want to urge others to do the same to keep their pets healthy and save lives.” a resident said.
The exercise is part of a broader national campaign by VEMTAG to promote animal health and public safety through education and preventive care.
Mike 105.3FM | Navrongo | David Adapuna
