LIRA — City authorities have issued a public alert following a sharp increase in dog bite cases and three suspected deaths linked to rabies, raising concerns among health and veterinary officials.
The City Production Office reports at least five dog bite incidents every week, though officials believe the actual number is higher as many cases go unreported.
Bruno Serunjo Akejo, the City Production Officer, said the situation now poses a serious public health threat.
“Some people are reluctant to report dog bites, yet dogs carry zoonotic diseases such as rabies,” Akejo said, confirming that three residents have recently died following suspected exposure to the virus.
City records show that Lira has an estimated 4,000 dogs, 1,100 cats, and 16,600 head of cattle, figures officials say significantly increase the risk of disease transmission if animal movement is not properly controlled.
Senior Veterinary Officer Dr. Nelson Okello noted that dog bite cases have been steadily rising this year, with 22 cases recorded in August alone — the highest monthly figure so far.
“When you observe a rising trend in dog bites and the circumstances surrounding them, rabies becomes a strong suspicion,” Dr Okello said.
He added that veterinary teams have already euthanized suspected rabid dogs in parts of Erute East and Barapwo B to contain further spread.
Although the city has launched targeted rabies vaccination campaigns in high-risk areas, officials report low turnout from pet owners. Authorities are urging residents to vaccinate and restrain their dogs and cats to prevent them from straying.
Dr. Okello also cautioned against slaughtering sick animals at home or consuming uninspected meat, warning that contact with infected animal body fluids can expose people to rabies.
Rabies is a viral disease that attacks the brain and nervous system of humans and animals. Dr Okello emphasized that once symptoms appear, the disease is almost always fatal, making prevention through vaccination, early reporting, and responsible pet ownership critical.