Ransford Okornor, the Bolgatanga Municipal Veterinary Doctor, has described rabies—a viral disease that affects both humans and various animals, including dogs, cattle, and monkeys—as a serious condition that should not be taken lightly. His concerns follow the deaths of seven people from rabies in the Upper East Region this year, out of nine suspected cases recorded, according to regional health authorities.
Dr. Okornor explained that the disease is primarily transmitted to humans through bites or scratches from infected animals, and it can also spread through contact with their saliva or other bodily fluids. He warned that even casual interactions with rabid animals can lead to transmission if saliva comes into contact with open wounds or mucous membranes. “For example, if a goat or a dog has rabies and you play with it, you might get its saliva on your fingers. If you then accidentally touch your eyes, you could transfer the virus into your eye, mouth, or nose,” he said. “Once the saliva, which contains the virus, enters these parts of the body, it can easily spread to other areas.”
Infected animals, he noted, display noticeable changes in behavior, often losing coordination and exhibiting aggression without provocation. Dr. Okornor explained that these dogs may attack indiscriminately, chew on non-food items, and show excessive salivation. As the disease progresses, paralysis can occur, rendering the animal unable to walk. “Dogs usually bite when provoked, but a rabid dog may bite without any provocation. It will randomly attack people, other animals, and even chew on strange objects. You might find a dog chewing rubber, tires, or children’s toys—these are signs of rabies in dogs and cats as well.”
Dr. Okornor stressed the importance of prevention through vaccination. He urged pet owners to vaccinate their animals at three months of age and ensure they receive annual booster shots. He emphasized that once symptoms of rabies appear, it is typically too late for effective treatment. In such cases, confining the animal for observation is necessary to determine if it is rabid. “Once symptoms of rabies begin to show, it’s usually too late. We can’t do anything about it. The only option is to advise the owner to confine the animal for a period of time, usually 14 days. Within that period, if it is indeed rabies, symptoms will develop, and we can then take a sample for confirmation.”
In the event of a bite from a suspected rabid animal, immediate action is crucial. Victims should thoroughly wash the wound with soap and water for at least 15 minutes and seek medical attention right away. “If a rabid dog bites someone, the first piece of advice is to wash the affected area thoroughly with soap under running water for at least 15 minutes and then rush to the hospital to report the case,” he said.
Source: A1Radioonline.Com | 101.1MHz | Gifty Eyram Kudiabor | Bolgatanga |
