Veterinary officials in Philippines and Nigeria push for rabies prevention

Health officials and veterinary associations in the Philippines and Nigeria are intensifying efforts to combat rabies through vaccination and increased staffing.

In Ilocos Norte, Philippines, provincial veterinarian Loida Valenzuela reported significant progress in rabies prevention following a period of high case rates. The Provincial Veterinary Office is conducting monthlong vaccination activities to improve accessibility, offering services for a nominal fee or free of charge. Officials emphasized that community participation and responsible pet ownership, such as preventing animals from roaming freely, are critical to sustaining these gains.

In Kogi State, Nigeria, the Nigerian Veterinary Medical Association (NVMA) has called on the state government to employ at least two veterinary doctors per Local Government Area. NVMA Chairman Dr. Tolu Omotugba noted that the current number of veterinary officers is inadequate for effective disease surveillance and response. The association highlighted the fatal nature of the disease and the need for a collaborative ‘One Health’ approach involving various government ministries and community leaders to meet elimination goals.