By Olatunbosun Obafemi
A confirmed outbreak of rabies has been reported in the Ajah area of Lagos State, prompting swift response from veterinary and public health authorities. The Lagos State chapter of the Nigerian Veterinary Medical Association (NVMA), led by Dr. Ofua Mark, disclosed the outbreak in a statement made available to the media on Sunday.
According to Dr. Mark, the outbreak was detected through NVMA’s routine surveillance activities and later confirmed by the National Veterinary Research Institute (NVRI) in Vom, Plateau State. He emphasized that the association immediately notified the Lagos State Ministry of Agriculture and the Nigeria Centre for Disease Control and Prevention (NCDC), leading to the activation of containment measures in the affected area.
“In response, the authorities have initiated contact tracing and isolation protocols to curb the spread of the virus,” the statement read. Rabies, a deadly but preventable viral disease, is primarily transmitted through bites from infected animals, particularly dogs.
The NVMA has called on residents of Ajah, Lekki, and nearby communities to remain calm but stay alert. Pet owners are strongly advised to vaccinate their dogs and other pets, report any signs of abnormal animal behavior, and avoid contact with stray or unvaccinated animals.
Dr. Mark further urged individuals who may have been bitten by animals in the area to seek immediate medical attention and report the incident to the nearest veterinary clinic.
The association commended the swift actions of the government and reaffirmed its commitment to ongoing surveillance and collaboration with both NVRI and the Lagos State Government. “There is no cause for alarm,” the statement added. “The situation is under control, and the NVMA will continue to provide updates as needed.”
Residents are encouraged to contact the Lagos State NVMA for any inquiries or reports related to suspected cases.
