Ilemela targets 1,000 dogs in rabies vaccination

MWANZA: ILEMELA Municipal Council in Mwanza Region is targeting to vaccinate more than 1,000 dogs against rabies in a campaign aimed at protecting public health and preventing the spread of the disease from animals to humans.

The campaign, conducted by the municipal livestock department, started on October 9 and is scheduled to end on October 30, 2026.

Speaking during the exercise yesterday, Ilemela Municipal Veterinarian, Mr Magesa Matiku, said more than 300 dogs have so far received the vaccine.

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“We urge citizens to continue cooperating with livestock experts to achieve the campaign’s objectives and strengthen public health protection,” he said.

Mr Matiku explained that rabies is a dangerous viral disease that affects the nervous system and brain and can be fatal once symptoms appear.

He urged dog owners to cooperate with veterinary officers visiting their neighbourhoods to ensure their animals receive the vaccine and reduce the risk of infection.

A resident of Busenga, Mr Amani Omary, commended the government for providing free vaccination services in residential areas, saying the initiative helps protect families and the wider community against rabies.

Another resident of Buswelu, Mr Elias Viligalusi, said vaccinating dogs was essential for protecting both animals and humans, urging residents to take preventive measures seriously.