In observance of World Rabies Day 2026, the Cross River State Government has intensified its campaign against rabies with a free vaccination drive for dogs and cats in the state capital.
The exercise, held at the State Veterinary Clinic on Barracks Road, Calabar, Monday was organized by the Department of Veterinary Services in the Ministry of Livestock, Aquaculture and Fisheries Development, in collaboration with the Office of the Special Adviser to the Governor on Livestock Development.
Held under the global theme “Stronger Together,” the initiative underscored the need for collaboration among government agencies, veterinary professionals, healthcare workers and community leaders to eradicate the disease.
Speaking at the event, the Director of Veterinary Services, Dr. Jude Undiandeye, disclosed that rabies remains endemic in Cross River State, noting that Calabar recently recorded three fatal human cases.
Dr. Undiandeye described rabies as a preventable yet deadly viral disease affecting humans and warm-blooded animals, stressing that regular vaccination of pets remains the most effective barrier against transmission.
“Pet owners must ensure their dogs and cats are vaccinated annually. Routine vaccination does not merely protect the animal; it safeguards families and the broader public,” he said.
He cautioned against delaying treatment after an animal bite, urging victims to immediately wash the affected area thoroughly with clean water and soap before seeking urgent care at a health facility.
“Prompt medical intervention is critical. Once clinical symptoms of rabies manifest, the disease is almost invariably fatal,” he warned.
The Director called for robust implementation of the “One Health” approach, integrating human health, animal health and environmental management, noting that rabies control cannot be achieved by one sector alone. He also urged communities to discourage self-medication for bite victims and to report unvaccinated animals.
Dr. Undiandeye appealed to the state government to sustain vaccine procurement and enforce strict compliance with annual immunization laws, reiterating Cross River’s commitment to the global target of eliminating dog-mediated human rabies by 2030.
Pet owners at the clinic commended the state government for relieving them of the financial burden of veterinary care.
A resident, Simeon John, described the initiative as timely given recent dog-bite incidents in the area, while another resident, Christopher, said the exercise saved him significant costs after bringing eight dogs and a cat for vaccination.
Similarly, Blessing Inyang, who learned of the drive via social media, expressed relief at finally being able to vaccinate her cat, a procedure she had previously postponed due to financial constraints.
By Arit Ubi
