District Commissioner Jonathan Kapungwe has expressed concern over the increased dog bites in the district.Mr Kapungwe observes that the situation needs urgent attention adding that there is need for his council and other stakeholders to prevent mortalities due to rabies in the district.In an interview with ZANIS, District Fisheries and Livestock Coordinator Kaluba Mubanga however disclosed that her office in collaboration with the council has embarked on a sensitisation programme on the importance of vaccinating dogs in accordance with the Control of Dogs Act Cap 247 of the Laws of Zambia.“It is now time to act as no affected dog owner will be expected to complain should their dogs be found wanting,” she said.She warned dog owners to ensure their pets are vaccinated against Rabies and confined to owner’s premises, or risk their dogs being cropped.Dr Mubanga also cautioned residents to be wary of dogs roaming the streets and report such dogs to her department or the local authority.Presenting the district epidemic situation update to the committee, District Health Surveillance Officer, Lewis Dube indicated that 180 dog bites were reported at different health facilities in Mkushi from January 2024 to September 2024.
