Dowa, Malawi — At least 500 people in Malawi die from rabies every year, Deputy Minister of Agriculture, Irrigation and Water Development Thoko Tembo has said, describing the disease as a major public health concern, writes Sylvester Kumwenda, MANA.
Tembo made the remarks Wednesday in Dowa after presiding over the commemoration of Rabies Day and the launch of the National Rabies Strategic Plan by the ministry.
Dowa is among districts recording high numbers of rabies cases.
He said the number of cases continues to rise, with children most affected due to their tendency to play with dogs.
Tembo noted that vaccination coverage remains low, while the target is to vaccinate at least 70 percent of the national dog population, which research shows is effective in controlling rabies.
Tembo said government has established a committee to mobilise resources and coordinate rabies eradication efforts under the new strategic plan, calling on dog owners, stakeholders and communities to work together.
Dowa District Council Director of Health Services Dr Peter Makoza said the district is spending significant resources on anti-rabies vaccines due to increasing dog bite cases, but assured that vaccine stocks are currently adequate.
Traditional leaders were also urged to help raise public awareness.