In commemoration of 2019 World Rabies Day, the Anambra State Chapter of Nigeria Veterinary Doctors, has organized free anti-rabies vaccination across Ihiala Local Government Area of Anambra State.
The free vaccination which was also part of its anti-rabies vaccination campaign held on Saturday, 28th September 2019, at Odoata Primary School Field, in Ihiala Local Government Area.
Speaking to Anaedoonline during the free vaccination exercise, the Chairman of Nigeria Veterinary Medical Association, Anambra State Chapter, Dr. Okafor MAP, said that Rabies is a zoonotic disease that can be transmitted to human beings through an animal, and since human beings and animals cannot be separated, all efforts must be geared towards elimination of rabies.
Speaking about the free vaccination exercise, Dr. Okafor MAP said that the free vaccination which was sponsored by the association was intended not only to celebrate the World Rabies Day, but was also designed to raise awareness about rabies.
Speaking further, Dr. Okafor MAP. said that the association and government of Anambra State are already discussing on other possible ways to improve awareness about dangers of rabies, which will prevent any possible outbreak of rabies in the state.
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He bemoaned on the reluctance of some veterinary Doctors in Anambra State who have failed to identify with association, saying the association have continued to suffer a setback due to the reluctance.
He, however, advised Anambrians to vaccinate their dogs and be conscious about rabies which he described as very deadly.
Speaking also, a member of the association, Dr. Chukwunonso Umeononigwe, said that according to statistics available, quite a number of people have died from the deadly virus globally especially in low income earning countries.
According to him, the association decided to move the free vaccination exercise to Ihiala local government following reports that the area was underserved by veterinarians.
He noted that veterinary service in Anambra State is still at its infancy stage since residents of the state are yet to appreciate the need to treat their animals.
He called on the public to vaccinate their dogs to protect people living in their environment.
Expressing their gratitude, some of the beneficiaries thanked the association for the free vaccination exercise.
For Mr. Pius Okafor who said that he heard about the free vaccination in the church, he thanked the association for bringing the free vaccination exercise in the area saying that it will help curtail rabies virus in the area.
Speaking also Mr. Chinonso Mgbelele advised the association to continue the free vaccination, saying that he travels as far as Orlu in Imo State to vaccinate his dogs.
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