By George Bulombola

Mzuzu, September 7, Mana: Mzuzu Agriculture Development Division (MZADD) is expected to administer rabies vaccination to 9,000 pets, which include dogs and cats in Mzuzu City during the current mass sensitization and vaccination campaign.

In an interview Thursday alongside the ongoing Rabies vaccination campaign within the ADD, Chief Animal Health and Livestock Development Officer for Mzuzu ADD, Dr. Michael Luwe, said rabies vaccination campaigns are conducted annually in countries including Malawi where Rabies disease is common.

He added that rabies disease is deadly but a highly preventable disease that poses a significant threat to the public in areas where vaccination coverage is low.

“Globally, Rabies kill one person every nine minutes hence I advise all people who own pets either dogs or cats to ensure that their pets get the vaccine,” said Luwe.

 “So, it advisable that people should have their pets vaccinated and avoid interacting with suspected dogs,” added Luwe.

He then commended Community Health Coalition (Florida-USA) for supporting the initiative in the city with its associated logistics and vaccines.

 “Similar efforts are being made in other areas under MZADD with support from government and other partners,” he said.

One of the people who took her dogs to a Rabies vaccination site within the city, Jean Kaunda commended MZADD for conducting the campaign saying if not careful rabies can be a public health concern.

“I am also pleased with the initiative which includes Rabies awareness messages. People should know why they have to vaccinate their pets thereafter they will be seeking such services hence the success of the campaign,” said Kaunda.