Rabies remains a serious public health issue in Ghana, with dozens of suspected cases and deaths reported annually, mostly from dog bites. In the first half of the year, the Western Region has reported three fatalities, all from dog bites, across the region.

This is becoming a major concern for the Western Regional Directorate of Veterinary Services, Dr Simon Gbene. Speaking during an interview with Ghana News Agency in Takoradi, the veterinary doctor described the rising trend as worrying, citing that the disease is very preventable; however, owners of these dogs refuse to bring their animals for vaccination.

“We have enough vaccines; what is left is individuals bringing their pets for vaccination. Dog licensing requires that you vaccinate your dog yearly,” he said.

He indicated that two of the deaths were recorded in the Wassa East District, while one occurred in the Jomoro Municipality.

He urged all dog owners to ensure their pets are vaccinated at designated service centres, warning that failure to comply could attract sanctions under existing regulations.

“You cannot own a dog that is not vaccinated because it may pose a threat to the lives in the neighbourhood or community,” he said.

Dr Gbene added that the service, in collaboration with district assemblies, has begun implementing punitive measures aimed at ensuring strict compliance with vaccination and licensing requirements.

Highlighting the global statistics relating to rabies fatalities, particularly in children, Mr Gbene stated that an estimated 70,000 children die each year from dog bites and related complications worldwide.

He also cautioned the public against delaying medical attention after dog bites, stressing that immediate treatment is critical to survival.

“Don’t stay at home or accept money from a dog owner and refuse to seek proper care. The virus can remain in the human body for up to two years. Report immediately for treatment,” he added.

Dr Gbene also called on Metropolitan, Municipal and District Assemblies to support veterinary services by subsidising or covering the cost of vaccinations to improve coverage and reduce preventable deaths.

About rabiesRabies is a deadly zoonotic viral disease (Lyssavirus) that affects the central nervous system of humans and animals. It is described as a zoonotic because it mostly originates in animals and can be passed to humans primarily through dog bites, but also via bats, cats, foxes, raccoons, and other mammals.It is transmitted through the saliva from infected animals entering broken skin or mucous membranes, and once transmission occurs, immediate medical attention is required and critical in preventing fatality, as once symptoms start developing, rabies is almost always fatal.SymptomsSome of the early symptoms of rabies may include Fever, headache, weakness, pain, or tingling around the bite area. As the disease progresses, an infected person may experience severe symptoms such as difficulty swallowing, excessive salivation, fear of water (hydrophobia), confusion or agitation