The Egyptian Ministry of Agriculture and Land Reclamation's Veterinary Services will initiate a major campaign to vaccinate stray dogs against rabies across all governorates, starting November 1. The week-long campaign aims to enhance disease prevention and control measures, protecting public health and limiting the spread of the disease. This effort aligns with the state's strategy to prevent diseases shared between humans and animals.
The campaign is in line with directives from Agriculture Minister Alaa Farouk and under the supervision of Engineer Mostafa Al-Sayad, Deputy Minister of Agriculture. Dr. Mohamed Saad, Head of the Veterinary Services Authority, oversees the intensification of preventive vaccination efforts and the implementation of necessary veterinary measures to control rabies. The goal is to support the national strategy to eliminate the disease by 2030.
Dr. Mohamed Saad emphasized the importance of continued vaccination efforts against rabies through veterinary committees across governorates. The campaign will focus on vaccinating stray dogs with the rabies vaccine free of charge, following approved veterinary regulations. The Veterinary Services Authority will intensify awareness and guidance efforts, promoting safe interaction with dogs and highlighting the role of vaccination in reducing disease transmission risks.
The campaign targets stray dogs, and the Veterinary Services Authority will work to reach targeted areas and coordinate with relevant authorities to support disease control efforts and protect citizens. The initiative is part of the implementation of the law regulating the possession of dangerous animals and dogs, issued by Law No. 29 of 2023, and its executive regulations.
Dr. Saad stressed the importance of raising public awareness about the dangers of rabies and the need to avoid unsafe interactions with dogs. He urged citizens to report cases of bites and seek immediate medical attention, as well as notify veterinary authorities to take necessary actions.
The Veterinary Services Authority called on citizens to cooperate with participating veterinary teams and report suspected cases or bites. The public can contact veterinary authorities or call the hotline 19561 to receive reports and inquiries, supporting national efforts to achieve the goal of "Egypt free from rabies by 2030".
The campaign is a significant step towards controlling the spread of rabies and protecting public health in Egypt. By vaccinating stray dogs and promoting awareness, the Veterinary Services Authority aims to reduce the risks associated with the disease and create a safer environment for citizens.
Key points
- The campaign aims to vaccinate stray dogs against rabies across all governorates in Egypt.
- The initiative supports the national strategy to eliminate rabies by 2030.
- Citizens are encouraged to cooperate with veterinary teams and report suspected cases or bites.
