The Nigerian Forest Security Service (NFSS), Kano State Command, has deployed personnel to Garko Local Government Area following reports of suspected rabid dogs attacking and biting 18 residents. This move aims to contain the situation and prevent further attacks. According to the State Commander of the NFSS, Abdullahi Al’ameen, the command received a distress report at about 2 p.m. regarding a dog suspected to be infected with rabies.
The suspected rabid dog initially bit 11 people in Garko town before moving into neighboring communities, including Raba, Kadage, Gurjiya, and Dausai, where it attacked and injured seven additional residents. The NFSS command has received another report indicating that two other dogs were suspected to have been infected with rabies in the area. The development has raised concerns among residents, who are being urged to remain vigilant.
Personnel of the NFSS Garko Division, led by the Divisional Forest Officer, Auwalu Muhammad, have been deployed to the affected communities to track and contain the suspected rabid dogs. The NFSS is working to prevent further attacks and ensure the situation is brought under control. Residents are advised to report sightings of stray or suspected rabid dogs to the nearest NFSS office or other security agencies.
The State Commander of the NFSS, Abdullahi Al’ameen, has urged residents of Garko and neighboring communities to remain vigilant and promptly report any suspicious dog sightings. He also advised anyone bitten by a suspected rabid dog to seek immediate medical attention. The commander assured residents that the NFSS would continue to monitor the situation and take necessary measures to prevent further attacks.
The incident has highlighted the need for caution and vigilance in the face of potential rabies outbreaks. Rabies is a viral disease that can be transmitted through the saliva of infected animals, usually through bites. It is a serious public health concern, and prompt medical attention is essential for those bitten or exposed to the virus.
The Kano State government has previously taken steps to address the issue of rabies in the state. Recently, the government approved N99 million for an anti-rabies program, targeting 10,000 dogs. The program aims to vaccinate dogs and prevent the spread of rabies in the state. The government’s efforts are geared towards ensuring public safety and preventing further outbreaks.
The NFSS deployment is a response to the growing concern over the suspected rabid dogs in the area. The service is working to contain the situation and prevent further attacks. With the continued efforts of the NFSS and other stakeholders, residents of Garko and neighboring communities can feel safer and more protected from the threat of rabies.
Key points
- NFSS deploys personnel to Garko Local Government Area to contain suspected rabid dogs.
