Namisindwa, Uganda: Leaders in Namisindwa District have launched a district-wide free rabies vaccination campaign targeting more than 3,000 dogs and cats as part of efforts to curb the spread of the deadly disease and protect communities from infection.
The campaign was officially flagged off at the LC5 Chairperson’s Boardroom at the Namisindwa District Headquarters.
Speaking at the launch, District Veterinary Officer Dr. Lydia Nandutu said the exercise will cover both dogs and cats because they are the primary carriers through which rabies is transmitted to humans.
She described rabies as a fatal but preventable disease and said vaccinating pets remains the most effective way to eliminate infections at the source.
Dr. Nandutu added that the district veterinary department has been conducting community sensitisation programmes in schools to educate learners and residents about the dangers of dog bites and the importance of preventing rabies through responsible pet ownership and timely vaccination.
Namisindwa District LC5 Chairperson Bwayo Emma said the district had received 3,000 doses of rabies vaccines from the government, which will be administered free of charge during the campaign.
He said the consignment also includes needles, protective gloves and vaccination certificates to support the exercise.
Bwayo cautioned veterinary personnel and local leaders against any misuse of the vaccines, stressing that they are intended solely for protecting communities against rabies.
The LC5 Chairperson noted that the district has previously recorded rabies-related deaths, citing the recent death of a young man who succumbed to the disease after being bitten by a dog. He was buried earlier this week.
He urged LC1 chairpersons, parish leaders and other community mobilisers to intensify public awareness and encourage residents to present all eligible dogs and cats for vaccination.
Bwayo said the success of the campaign will depend on active community participation, adding that widespread vaccination will help safeguard both animals and people from one of the world’s deadliest zoonotic diseases.
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