By Chisomo Phiri
BLANTYRE-(MaraviPos)-Mission Rabies Malawi on Saturday April 26,2025 launched its 11th Blantyre City dog vaccination campaign.
The campaign aims to vaccinate over 20,000 dogs in 10 days, with the goal of reaching 70% of the city’s dog population to achieve herd immunity.
The campaign has two main targets:vaccinating a significant number of dogs and ensuring that 70% of the dog population is covered to keep the community safe.
In an interview with journalists,Mission Rabies Malawi Country Director,Dr.Inga McDermott emphasized that the challenge lies in getting dog owners to attend static point vaccination clinics, with 87 clinics set up across the city.
She said the campaign will run for 10 days, with static points advertised through direct sensitization teams, text messages, and radio adverts.
“Roaming vehicles will also be deployed to reach more areas.
“Dogs of all ages are eligible for vaccination, and the campaign encourages responsible dog ownership,” said McDermott.
She said this year, they have expanded their reach to 14 districts in southern and central regions, building on last year’s success in vaccinating over 150,000 dogs.
Added McDermott:”During the campaign, free dog sterilizations will be offered on specific weekends to promote responsible dog ownership and stabilize the dog population.
“A local clinic and shelter are also available for dog health checks, vaccinations, and rehoming.”
She encouraged dog owners to bring their pets forward for vaccination, emphasizing the importance of protecting the community against rabies.
Rabies is a vaccine-preventable, zoonotic, viral disease affecting the central nervous system.
In up to 99% of the human rabies cases, dogs are responsible for virus transmission.
Children between the age of 5 and 14 years are frequent victims.
The disease infects mammals, including dogs, cats, livestock and wildlife.
Rabies spreads to people and animals via saliva, usually through bites, scratches, or direct contact with mucosa (e.g. eyes, mouth, or open wounds).
