Ghana is set to eliminate Rabies by 2030.
Rabies is one of the six zoonotic, neglected tropical diseases. To this end, experts are calling on International Organisations and countries to demonstrate more commitment to its elimination.
At the launch of World Rabies Day on Wednesday, September 16, Acting Chief Director of the Ministry of Food and Agriculture, Patrick Ankobiah, said victims of dog bite often report late to health facilities which result in fatalities.
Rabies is spread to people from the saliva of infected animals, through bites.
In Ghana, the disease is prevalent in poor rural communities. Though deadly, Rabies is preventable with vaccination of animals.
Acting Chief Director of the Ministry of Food and Agriculture, Patrick Ankobiah, noted that the most cost-effective way of addressing the menace is the vaccination of animals.
He was upbeat about eliminating the disease in Ghana by 2030.
The Chief Veterinary Officer Dr. William Adu Kuma highlights some activities lined up for this year’s celebration.
An Associate Professor of at the University of Ghana, School of Veterinary Medicine, Phyllis Addo, called for more resources to be channeled into rabies prevention.
World Rabies Day is celebrated annually on September 28, to raise awareness about the disease. This year’s celebration will take place in Lawra in the Upper West Region.
By: Rachel Kakraba.
