Kitwe reportedly vaccinates over 1,700 dogs in Q3, as district records 76 dog bite incidents

The Kitwe City Council, through its Department of Veterinary Services, has reported significant progress in its rabies prevention efforts, vaccinating 1,717 dogs in Kitwe District during the third quarter of 2024.

Public relations manager, Mwaka Nakweti, stated on Friday that these vaccinations were part of the council’s strategy to protect public health.

Among the vaccinated dogs were 106 in Luangwa, 126 in Zamtan, 50 in Malembeka, 108 in Chamboli, 90 in Justin Kabwe, and 108 in Ndeke.

In addition, 420 vaccinations were conducted at veterinary offices, while private facilities administered another 718.

“The vaccination programme is crucial to our ongoing commitment to rabies prevention,” Nakweti said.

She urged residents to ensure their pets are vaccinated.

“Rabies is a severe and often fatal disease that can be transmitted to humans through animal bites,” Nakweti said.

During the third quarter, Kitwe District recorded 76 dog bite incidents, with 37 individuals receiving post-exposure prophylaxis and 39 undergoing wound care.

Of the dogs involved, 29 were found to have valid rabies vaccination certificates and were quarantined for 14 days under clinical observation, with none showing symptoms of rabies.

Nakweti reminded residents that the Control of Dogs Act Cap 247 of the Laws of Zambia mandated dog registration with local authorities and secure confinement to prevent roaming.

“We are pleased to report no rabies-related fatalities this quarter,” she said, encouraging pet owners to comply with vaccination and confinement requirements to sustain a rabies-free community.

She also warned that failure to vaccinate or register pets could result in fines or seizure under public health regulations.

“Kitwe City Council remains committed to public safety and urges all residents to actively participate in responsible pet management and vaccination,” Nakweti said.

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