The Chief Animal Health Officer at the Veterinary Services Department in Bolgatanga, Eric Agongo, has sounded the alarm over the dangerously low rate of dog vaccinations in the Upper East Region, warning of a looming public health threat due to the potential spread of rabies.

In an interview with A1 Radio, monitored by Class Newsroom, Mr. Agongo disclosed that despite government subsidies covering 50% of the cost of rabies vaccinations in the five regions of the North, only a fraction of dog owners are taking advantage of the initiative.

“In the Upper East Region, vaccination rates do not even exceed 15 percent,” he revealed.

“It is quite alarming when you consider the implications for rabies transmission.”

He explained that the department has set an annual target of 70% vaccination coverage to effectively control the spread of rabies.

However, the current shortfall of approximately 55% leaves communities vulnerable to outbreaks.

According to Mr. Agongo, many dog owners fail to take responsibility for the health of their pets, often ignoring critical vaccinations.

“People do not have time for their dogs and simply do not care about their health needs,” he lamented.

Rabies is a highly fatal viral disease that can be transmitted from animals to humans, often through bites or scratches.

Without prompt medical treatment, the disease is almost always deadly.

Mr. Agongo urged residents to act swiftly by taking advantage of the subsidised vaccines to protect both human and animal life.

“If we want to save lives, we must vaccinate. Rabies is fatal, but it is entirely preventable,” he emphasised.

He also noted that the Veterinary Services Department will intensify public education campaigns across the region but called for stronger community cooperation to meet the 70% vaccination target and avert a potential public health crisis.