The Bibiani Anhwiaso Bekwai Municipal Health Directorate in Ghana's Western North Region has reported a concerning rise in dog bite cases and rabies-related deaths. Between January and October 2026, the municipality recorded over 200 dog bite cases and four fatalities due to rabies. This development has raised alarm among health officials, who are now urging residents to take immediate action to protect themselves and their pets.
According to Doris Verome, the Municipal Disease Control Officer, the number of dog bite cases and deaths is particularly worrying because rabies is a preventable disease. She emphasized that timely vaccination and proper treatment after exposure can prevent the disease. Verome made these remarks during a sensitization program organized by the Health Directorate to mark World Rabies Day.
The sensitization program, which took place at Sefwi Ankra Muano, aimed to educate residents on the dangers of rabies and the importance of seeking medical attention immediately after a dog bite. Verome stressed that resorting to home remedies or delaying treatment can have severe consequences. She also called on dog owners to regularly vaccinate their pets and ensure they receive proper care.
Responsible pet ownership is critical to preventing rabies infections and deaths, Verome said. She encouraged residents to be cautious around unfamiliar or stray dogs and report suspected cases to the relevant health or veterinary authorities. This, she believes, will help prevent the spread of the disease.
Residents who participated in the sensitization program welcomed the initiative, saying it had improved their understanding of rabies and its risks. They pledged to vaccinate their pets and adopt better practices in caring for their dogs to protect their families and the wider community from the disease.
The Bibiani Anhwiaso Bekwai Municipal Health Directorate's efforts to raise awareness about rabies are ongoing. Health officials continue to engage with the community, emphasizing the importance of vaccination and proper pet care. The goal is to reduce the number of dog bite cases and rabies-related deaths in the municipality.
The four rabies-related deaths recorded in Bibiani Anhwiaso Bekwai this year serve as a stark reminder of the need for vigilance. Health officials are urging residents to take the necessary precautions to prevent the spread of the disease. Key efforts include vaccination, proper pet care, and seeking immediate medical attention after a dog bite.
Key points
- Four rabies-related deaths and over 200 dog bite cases have been recorded in Bibiani Anhwiaso Bekwai municipality in Ghana this year.
- Health officials are urging residents to vaccinate their pets and seek immediate medical attention after a dog bite to prevent the spread of rabies.
- The municipality's health directorate is conducting sensitization programs to educate residents about the dangers of rabies and the importance of responsible pet ownership.
