The Veterinary Services Department of the Ministry of Food and Agriculture (MoFA) has commenced a nationwide mass vaccination campaign targeting 25,000 dogs and cats in identified high-risk areas.

The campaign, which runs throughout September 2026, forms part of Ghana’s efforts to achieve zero human deaths from dog-mediated rabies by 2030.

According to the Ministry, the initiative is also part of activities marking World Rabies Month 2026, being observed under the theme, “Stronger Together”.

The vaccination is being offered free of charge throughout September, after which prescribed fees will apply.

The Veterinary Services Department said it will intensify public education on rabies prevention through schools, religious institutions, traditional authorities, social media and community engagement.

It said educational videos and audio messages in Twi, Ga, Ewe and Hausa will also be widely distributed to improve public awareness.

The department has urged pet owners to ensure their dogs and cats receive annual rabies vaccinations.

“Vaccinate their dogs and cats against rabies every year,” the Ministry stated in its press release.

Pet owners have also been advised to report any animal bite or scratch immediately to the nearest health facility and report the animal involved to the nearest veterinary centre.

The Ministry warned that rabies remains a serious public health concern, stressing that the disease is preventable through vaccination.

“Rabies is virtually 100% fatal once symptoms develop, but it is preventable through vaccination,” the statement said.

It further cautioned that failure to vaccinate a pet may constitute an offence under applicable Metropolitan, Municipal and District Assembly (MMDA) by-laws.

The Veterinary Services Department has called on MMDAs, civil society organisations, religious and traditional authorities, development partners and the private sector to support the campaign.

Support is expected in areas including the provision of vaccines, logistics, public education and community mobilisation.

The department said the campaign is aimed at strengthening preventive measures against rabies and supporting Ghana’s commitment to eliminating human deaths from dog-mediated rabies by 2030.

For enquiries or support, members of the public can call or WhatsApp 055 333 9667.

Read the full statement below



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