DistantNews
Support us
🇹🇳 Tunisia /Health & Science

Tunisia launches rabies control operation after outbreak detected in three governorates

From La Presse · () French

Translated from French, summarized and contextualized by DistantNews.

At a glance

News Sources not specified New plan
  • Tunisian veterinary authorities announced an intensive field intervention, including vaccination and epidemiological surveillance, after detecting a rabies outbreak in three border governorates.
  • The operation aims to quickly contain the disease's spread and strengthen prevention measures, with a specialist emphasizing the need for early intervention and coordination.
  • The situation may be linked to a relaxation of measures in 2023-2024 and undeclared cases, highlighting the collective responsibility of authorities and citizens in combating rabies.

Tunisian veterinary authorities have launched a robust field intervention, including widespread vaccination and epidemiological surveillance, following the detection of a rabies outbreak in the border region spanning Kasserine, Siliana, and Le Kef governorates. The initiative, announced by the Directorate General of Veterinary Services, aims to swiftly curb the disease's propagation and bolster preventive measures in the affected areas.

The situation current could be linked to a certain relaxation observed during the years 2023 and 2024, as well as to cases of non-declaration and concealment.

— Professor Ahmed RajebSpeaking about the potential causes of the current rabies outbreak.

Professor Ahmed Rajeb, a university hospital specialist, stressed the critical need for a scientific, preventive approach. He highlighted the importance of early intervention and close collaboration among all stakeholders to limit rabies' spread. Rajeb noted that a rabies outbreak signifies the confirmed presence of an infected animal, and the disease can affect all mammals.

The current situation might stem from a lapse in vigilance during 2023 and 2024, coupled with instances of non-reporting and concealment, according to the specialist. He expressed concern over recorded cases in both animals and humans. Rajeb underscored that combating rabies requires collective responsibility, involving authorities and citizens alike, through animal vaccination, adherence to hygiene rules, and proper waste management to prevent virus transmission.

The fight against rabies relies on collective responsibility involving authorities and citizens, particularly through animal vaccination, respect for hygiene rules, and waste management.

— Professor Ahmed RajebEmphasizing the shared role in controlling the disease.

Professor Rajeb assured that the Ministry of Agriculture is fully apprised of the situation's evolution. He expressed optimism that rabies eradication remains achievable, provided coordination and preventive measures are significantly strengthened. The professor also noted increased transparency in addressing the current outbreak.

The eradication of rabies remains possible, provided that coordination and preventive measures are strengthened.

— Professor Ahmed RajebExpressing cautious optimism about controlling the outbreak.
DistantNews Editorial

Originally published by La Presse in French. Translated, summarized, and contextualized by our editorial team with added local perspective. Read our editorial standards.

More Stories

From Our Blog