Rabies case detected at Ondangwa
A rabies case has been confirmed in a dog in Ondangwa, Namibia, prompting local authorities to launch an urgent vaccination campaign. Residents are encouraged to bring their pets to designated vaccination sites to prevent the spread of the deadly disease.
Why it matters
Rabies is a fatal zoonotic disease; rapid public health intervention is critical to preventing human transmission and protecting community safety.
A positive case of rabies was detected at Extension Four at Ondangwa last Thursday, chief animal health technician Simon Nalushiya says.
He says the case was detected in a dog but can affect humans.
Ondangwa Town Council spokesperson Petrina Shitalangaho-Mutikisha in a statement issued on Monday says the town and the Directorate of Veterinary Services have launched an urgent vaccination campaign for dogs and cats in affected and surrounding areas.
“Rabies is a deadly disease. Once symptoms develop, the disease is almost always fatal. Prompt action is, therefore, essential to protect our families, pets and community,” she says.
The campaign will start on Wednesday, she says.
For residents at Extensions Four and Six, vaccinations will take place from 09h00 to 13h00 at the Ondangwa Tennis Club. For Extensions Two and Three vaccinations will take place at Oshinime Primary School from 14h00 to 16h30.
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