Precious Manomano

Herald Reporter

Five people have died from rabies in Midlands since January after being bitten by infected dogs with the province now declared a rabies zone and Veterinary Department vaccinating all dogs, but concentrating on Gokwe and Mberengwa, the epicentres of the present outbreak.

Rabies is invariably fatal and the only treatment for humans is vaccination, which is 100 percent effective, soon after the bite or other source of infection before symptoms develop. Animal vaccinations are also 100 percent effective in preventing the disease from spreading.

Stray dogs and unvaccinated dogs are seen as the main risks.

Veterinary Provincial Director for Midlands Dr Martin Sibanda said the department was being supported by local leaders. In Gokwe for example, traditional leaders had already ruled as part of the efforts to make dog owners control their animals that the owner of any dog that bites a person will be forced to give the bitten person a beast in compensation.

“We lost five human lives as a result of the outbreak of rabies in the province, so we are appealing for all people to make sure that their dogs are vaccinated, More lives are being lost.

“People are forced to compensate for every dog bite because most of them are reluctant to bring their dogs for vaccination.”

Dr Sibanda encouraged communities to report early to their nearest veterinary offices any suspected cases of rabies and strange behaviour from their animals.

“Dogs that are found with rabies are put down to prevent rabies from spreading to people and other animals.

“All dog owners should ensure that their dogs are vaccinated. If anyone is bitten by a suspicious dog, they should seek medical attention soon after they’re bitten,” said Dr Sibanda.

Rabies is one of the most devastating viral diseases affecting mammals, including dogs and humans. It is a fatal disease caused by infection with the rabies virus. Rabies virus is found throughout the world, including North America, Central and South America, Asia, Africa, the Middle East, and some parts of Europe.

However, there are areas in the world that are rabies free, mainly island countries where effective measures can be taken to prevent potentially infected animals from entering, The free areas include Australia, New Zealand, Japan, Ireland, Iceland, United Kingdom, certain Pacific Islands, Antarctica and parts of Scandinavia, a near island peninsula with the point of contact with Europe in an area where climate makes it hard for stray dogs or foxes to move.