Residents of Murang’a County have been urged to remain vigilant following a surge in stray dog attacks that have heightened fears over public safety, particularly among school-going children.
The County Department of Public Health raised the alarm after six people were treated for dog bites at Murang’a Level 5 Hospital within the last two weeks. The cases were reported in Maragi area of Kiharu Sub-County, as well as Ichagaki and Makuyu in Murang’a South Sub-County.
County Director of Public Health Phares Njue warned that the increasing presence of stray dogs in residential areas and market centres poses a serious health risk, noting that some animals are suspected to be rabid.
He cautioned residents to seek immediate medical attention after any dog or cat bite or scratch, stressing that rabies is fatal once symptoms appear. Njue also called on pet owners to ensure proper confinement and regular vaccination of animals, as county authorities work with veterinary officers to curb the threat.
