Last year, a total of 19,972 people were admitted to health facilities due to bites from animals, namely dogs and cats, which could transmit rabies.

The victims had to be given anti-rabies vaccines to prevent them from contracting the infection.  

According to the newspaper News the victims were attacked by dogs of aggressive breeds in urban areas and stray animals. Attacks have also been recorded in areas close to national reserves. These include the provinces of Gaza, Niassa and Cabo Delgado, where there are even foxes.

In the previous year, 22,184 cases of bites by animals possibly carrying rabies were recorded.

In order to reduce the occurrence of rabies in humans, the health authorities are urging dog and cat owners to vaccinate their animals and keep an eye on them to prevent uncontrolled reproduction.

In addition, last year it was planned to immunize around 400,000 animals, compared to 300,000 in 2023.