By Our Reporter
Authorities in Katakwi district have announced a strict crackdown on unvaccinated and stray dogs following a recent rabies vaccination campaign.
The veterinary department has declared that any dog not vaccinated during the ongoing exercise will be eliminated to prevent the further spread of rabies to humans and domestic animals. Additionally, dog owners who interfere with the vaccination process risk arrest and prosecution.
Dr. Anthony Odeke, Acting District Veterinary Officer (DVO) of Katakwi, explained that after the vaccination drive, they will conduct a verification exercise across the district to identify unvaccinated or stray dogs. Owners of unvaccinated dogs will face legal action, and stray dogs will be targeted for elimination. “We have records for each vaccinated dog, including the owner’s details. Stray and unvaccinated dogs will have no choice but to be eliminated,” Dr. Odeke stated.
The vaccination campaign, which commenced on Monday, October 6, 2025, has seen significant participation, with 200 dogs vaccinated on the first day and approximately 700 vaccinated on the second day at Ngariam Akim BT Primary School. The district aims to vaccinate around 5,000 dogs across hotspot sub-counties including Ngariam, Palam, Omodoi, Okulonyo, Ongongonja, Guyaguya, Magoro, and parts of Getom and Akoboi, through a phased approach.
Dr. Odeke emphasized that the vaccination provides protection against rabies for up to one year, after which booster doses will be administered to maintain immunity.
Moses Iteit, LCIII Chairperson of Ngariam Subcounty, reported that rabies outbreaks have caused serious concern—including 14 human bites—and has prompted the sub-county to launch an operation targeting unvaccinated dogs. He warned that dog owners who persist in keeping unvaccinated animals will be apprehended, emphasizing the government’s commitment to eradicating rabies.
Zainabu Sebi, a town council member of Katakwi, praised the vaccination effort but urged the government to extend immunization efforts district-wide to eliminate rabies entirely.
Last week, health and veterinary officials in Katakwi reported a rabies outbreak responsible for the deaths of two children and 93 bites from rabid dogs, underscoring the urgency of the campaign.
Dr. Odeke urged residents to familiarize themselves with rabies symptoms in dogs and cats, such as behavioral changes, excessive salivation, abnormal barking, and unexplained biting. Immediate reporting of such symptoms to veterinary authorities is critical in preventing further spread.
Rabies, a deadly viral disease affecting the Central Nervous System (CNS), is primarily transmitted through saliva via bites or contact with broken skin, eyes, nose, or mouth. Once the virus reaches the brain, it causes inflammation, leading to severe neurological symptoms and, ultimately, death if not treated promptly.
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