The Upper East Region has recorded seven fatalities due to rabies, with nine suspected cases reported in 2024, according to regional health authorities.

These alarming statistics were shared during the World Rabies Day event held in Bolgatanga on Saturday, under the theme “Breaking Rabies Boundaries.”

Collins Yin, a Health Promotion Officer at the Upper East Regional Health Directorate, indicated that the Bolgatanga Municipality had three suspected rabies cases, one of which resulted in death.

In the Bongo District, all three suspected cases led to fatalities, while the Garu District reported two suspected cases, both proving fatal. Additionally, the Nabdam District documented one case of rabies that resulted in the individual's death.

Mr Yin emphasized the importance of vaccinating pets, especially dogs, to prevent further tragedies, stating, “We can prevent these unnecessary deaths if people ensure their dogs are vaccinated.”

Dr. Henry Nii Ayi Anang, the Regional Veterinary Officer, shared that from January to September 2023, 5,410 dogs and 1,631 cats were vaccinated in the Upper East Region.

However, he highlighted the urgent need for more action, noting that approximately 100,000 dogs in the region remain unvaccinated.

“There is a need for concerted efforts to raise awareness and increase vaccination rates. Rabies is a deadly disease, and we must take every step to protect ourselves and our animals,” Dr. Anang said.

The event, organized by The Light Foundation with the support of USAID and fhi360, brought together health and veterinary officials to discuss effective strategies for rabies eradication.

Sheikh Ali Abubakar Napari, CEO of The Light Foundation, lamented the prevalent ignorance surrounding the significance of vaccinating pets.

"Many pet owners do not understand how dangerous rabies is. We must do more to educate the public and ensure every dog, cat, and pet is vaccinated" he asserted, committing to his organization’s goal of eliminating rabies by 2030.

“There is a need for concerted efforts to raise awareness and increase vaccination rates. Rabies is a deadly disease, and we must take every step to protect ourselves and our animals,” Dr. Anang said.

Rabies, a viral disease transmitted through bites or scratches from infected animals, poses a serious public health threat. Without timely vaccination following exposure, the disease is almost always fatal.