By KT Reporter
Authorities in Katakwi District have launched an urgent vaccination campaign for all domestic dogs to curb the spread of rabies, amid reports of multiple deaths linked to the disease. Unvaccinated dogs face elimination, and owners who obstruct the programme may face arrest.
The veterinary department announced that, as part of the exercise, any unvaccinated or stray dogs will be culled as a precautionary measure to prevent further transmission of rabies to humans and other domestic animals. The situation in Katakwi has reached a critical stage following complaints from communities about stray dogs suspected to be infected with the virus.
Reports indicate that two children have died after being bitten by suspected rabid dogs, and 93 others are believed to have contracted the disease. The vaccination exercise aims to cover over 5,000 domestic dogs in high-risk sub-counties, including Ngariam, Palam, Omodoi, Okulonyo, Ongongonja, Guyaguya, Magoro, and parts of Getom and Akoboi.
Dr. Anthony Odeke, the acting District Veterinary Officer, said verification will follow the vaccination to identify any unvaccinated dogs. “We have a register for each vaccinated dog and the owner’s name. Stray and unvaccinated dogs will have no option but to be eliminated,” Dr. Odeke stated.
The vaccination began on Monday, October 6, 2025, with 200 dogs vaccinated on the first day and about 700 on the second day at Ngariam Akim BT Primary School. According to Dr. Odeke, the vaccination protects dogs against rabies for one year, after which a booster will be administered.
Dr. Odeke urged residents to remain vigilant for rabies symptoms in dogs and cats, including behavioural changes, excessive salivation, abnormal barking, and unusual biting tendencies, and to report such cases immediately to veterinary officers.
Geoffrey Omolo, the LC5 chairperson of Katakwi District, said the chaos caused by rabid dogs prompted the emergency campaign. “Dog owners must vaccinate their pets and keep certificates as proof. For dogs that have strayed after contracting rabies, the district has agreed to begin a culling operation to prevent further harm,” Omolo said.
Omolo added that 40 sheep have died from dog bites suspected to be rabies-related, calling for swift action. Owners whose dogs cause harm risk being charged, especially if their animals are unvaccinated. The district resolved to vaccinate dogs every six months and ensure sufficient vaccine supply.
Moses Iteit, the LCIII chairperson for Ngariam sub-county, said: “Fourteen people have been bitten during the rabies outbreak in our area. We shall act to eliminate unvaccinated dogs and hold owners accountable.”
Zainabu Sebi, a local resident, praised the campaign but called on the government to extend it across the district for complete eradication of rabies.
Rabies is a deadly disease affecting the central nervous system, leading to inflammation of the brain. It spreads through contaminated saliva entering broken skin, eyes, nose, or mouth.
This urgent vaccination campaign is a vital step in protecting both humans and animals from the deadly disease and promoting public health in Katakwi District.
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