Ghana offers free rabies vaccination for 25,000 pets — MyJoyOnline
Ghana has launched free rabies vaccination for 25,000 dogs and cats in designated high-risk areas. The campaign is intended to help the country achieve its goal of zero human deaths from dog-transmitted rabies by 2030, MyJoyOnline reports, citing the Ghana News Agency.
Vaccination will continue in September
The initiative is part of World Rabies Month 2026 and is included in a nationwide campaign. It was announced by the Veterinary Services Department of Ghana's Ministry of Food and Agriculture. The campaign is being held under the slogan “Stronger Together.”
Chief Veterinary Officer Emmanuel Alledje-Kadjo said that vaccination for pets will be free throughout September 2026. After that, a set fee will be charged for vaccination.
More current news is available on the UA.News Telegram channel Telegram.
Call to seek medical care after bites
The authorities also plan to strengthen awareness-raising efforts through schools, religious institutions, traditional and social media, as well as community meetings. Educational videos and audio messages will be distributed in Twi, Ga, Ewe and Hausa.
Emmanuel Alledje-Kadjo urged owners to vaccinate dogs and cats against rabies every year. In the event of an animal bite or scratch, he advised immediately visiting the nearest medical facility and reporting the animal to the nearest veterinary center. According to him, rabies is fatal in almost 100% of cases after symptoms appear, but it can be prevented through vaccination.
The Veterinary Services Department noted that failing to vaccinate a pet may violate local regulations. The agency called on local authorities, community organizations, religious and traditional leaders, development partners and businesses to support the campaign by supplying vaccines, providing logistics, informing the public and mobilizing communities.
