Kilifi County reports increase in dog bites and rabies cases
Kilifi County is experiencing a rise in dog bites and rabies cases, prompting urgent vaccination campaigns and public alerts from health officials.
Residents of Kilifi County have been warned to be on the lookout following a surge in dog bites and confirmed rabies cases, prompting the county government to issue a heightened public alert as health and veterinary officials respond urgently.
The Directorate of Veterinary Services has launched an emergency vaccination exercise for dogs and cats in Sokoni and Tezo Wards as a pilot initiative.
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Officials said preliminary assessments indicate that the crisis is linked to unvaccinated and poorly managed domestic dogs, coupled with widespread irresponsible pet ownership.
“The Directorate of Veterinary Services has begun an emergency vaccination exercise for dogs and cats in Sokoni and Tezo Wards as a pilot initiative. As a preventive measure, the team will also roll out a countywide sensitisation and vaccination campaign for dogs and cats during the course of the financial year,” the county noted.
The probe also revealed widespread irresponsible pet ownership, with many dog keepers failing to vaccinate their animals against rabies or provide adequate care and feeding.
Residents have raised concerns while slowly heeding the warnings.
Aisha Omar, a mother of two, described the fear that has gripped her family.
"Last week, my youngest son was bitten while playing outside. I was terrified because I had heard about rabies cases nearby. Since then, I cannot let the children play far from home," she said.
Abdalla Juma, a shop owner, explained how the situation is affecting businesses.
"Customers avoid walking through this street after dark. Business has dropped because people fear attacks from stray animals. It’s affecting everyone," he said.
Halima Sheikh, a health worker, highlighted the medical risks involved.
"We have received several cases of bites in the past, and the fear among families is real. Rabies is deadly, but preventable if proper care is taken immediately," she explained.
County officials plan to roll out a wider sensitisation and vaccination campaign across all wards during the financial year. Residents are being urged to vaccinate their pets promptly and report any suspected rabies cases or dog bites to the nearest health facility.
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