By KT Reporter
Health and veterinary authorities in Katakwi District have confirmed an outbreak of rabies following the death of two children who succumbed to dog bites. At least 93 people are currently undergoing treatment for suspected rabies infections.
Dr Anthony Odeke, the Acting District Veterinary Officer, said that several subcounties have been identified as hotspots for rabies cases. These include Palam, Ngariam, Guyaguya, Ongongonja, Okulonyo, Omodoi, Akoboi, Katakwi, and Angodingod.
He urged residents to be vigilant and report signs of rabies in dogs and cats, such as sudden changes in behaviour, excessive salivation, unusual barking, and unnecessary biting of objects. Odeke further warned the public to be cautious of other animals that can spread rabies, including foxes, bats, and cats, and to avoid exposure to them.
According to Odeke, mass dog and cat vaccinations will be conducted across the district, starting with Ngariam Subcounty on Monday, October 6, 2025. The vaccinations will be provided free of charge.
Michael Okiror, the District Health Educator, confirmed that rabies cases are increasing, with 4-5 new bite cases reported daily. He explained that rabies is caused by a viral infection that affects the brain and central nervous system. Once the virus reaches the brain, it multiplies rapidly, leading to severe inflammation and eventual death if untreated.
He noted that early symptoms in humans include fever, headache, weakness, tingling, or pain at the bite site. Advanced symptoms may progress to anxiety, agitation, confusion, difficulty swallowing, hydrophobia (fear of water), hallucinations, paralysis, coma, and ultimately death.
The outbreak has sparked concern among residents and community leaders. Charles Ilukol, chairperson of the Katakwi Business Community, cautioned against selling meat from cows bitten by rabid dogs. Meanwhile, Paul Omoding Aka Ejerican, a resident of Aleles village in Akoboi Subcounty, appealed to the government to supply rabies vaccines to local health facilities for the quick treatment of victims.
Records from Katakwi General Hospital confirm that two children have died in recent months. The most recent case occurred on Tuesday, October 30, 2025, when a child from Atira village in Ngariam Subcounty died of rabies. The first death was reported in August.
The outbreak has also affected livestock, with 25 cows and goats reported bitten by rabid dogs. In addition, 106 dogs have been attacked by infected animals, further escalating the spread.
Okiror advised residents to apply immediate first aid by thoroughly washing bite wounds with soap and clean water within the first 15 minutes before rushing to the nearest health facility for treatment.
Experts emphasise that vaccination remains the most effective way to prevent rabies. For humans: Pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP): Recommended for high-risk groups such as veterinarians, animal handlers, and travellers in high-risk areas.
This involves three doses of either the Human Diploid Cell Vaccine (HDCV) or Purified Chick Embryo Cell Vaccine (PCECV).
Post-exposure prophylaxis (PEP): For bite victims, treatment includes rabies immunoglobulin (RIG), injected around the wound for severe exposures, along with a series of 4-5 vaccine doses administered over 2-4 weeks.
For animals, vaccinating dogs is considered the single most cost-effective strategy for preventing rabies deaths in humans.
-URN. Give us feedback on this story through our email: kamwokyatimes@gmail.com
