FCTA confirms 2 deaths from rabies, 8 cases

The Federal Capital Territory Administration (FCTA) has confirmed two fatalities and eight cases of rabies within the territory, prompting urgent calls for pet vaccination and immediate medical care following animal bites. The two deaths occurred in the Gwagwalada and Kwali Area Councils after individuals were bitten by rabid dogs.

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The immediate remedy after a bite is to wash the affected area with soap and plenty of water as first aid, and immediately present the victim to medical personnel for treatment.

Director of Veterinary Services at the FCTA Agriculture and Rural Development Secretariat, Karnak Dandam, stated that five confirmed cases were recorded in Gwagwalada and three in Kwali. He emphasized that rabies is a fatal viral disease attacking the central nervous system, typically transmitted through bites from infected dogs or cats. "The disease is almost always fatal once symptoms appear," Mr. Dandam warned, stressing the critical importance of immediate medical attention after any potential exposure.

As a preventative measure, the secretariat conducted vaccination campaigns in December 2025 and January 2026, though vaccine supplies were insufficient for the entire territory. To mitigate further spread, awareness campaigns have been intensified, advising residents to confine their pets and take them to designated clinics for vaccination and certification. The FCTA plans to procure additional vaccine doses for a mass vaccination exercise across all six area councils.

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The disease is almost always fatal once symptoms appear, stressing the importance of seeking immediate medical attention following exposure.

Mr. Dandam also urged residents to monitor their pets for sudden behavioral changes, which could indicate infection. The confirmed cases were identified from samples collected in March and June, tested at the National Veterinary Research Institute (NVRI) in Vom, Plateau State.

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Wherever there is a dog or a cat, we will visit, vaccinate, and provide the owners with a certificate of vaccination and a licence. That is our plan.