Kabale Resorts to Fines To Check Spread of Rabies

Kabale district has introduced a fine of shillings 50,000 on dog owners who fail to vaccinate them.  It comes after six people contracted rabies in Kitumba sub county after they were attacked by infected dogs early this year.

Immaculate Mandela, the Deputy Director of Health Services Kabale district says the rate at, which rabid dogs are attacking residents in Kitumba, Kamugangunzi and Buhara sub counties is alarming.

She says they decided to impose a fine after doing all they can to encourage residents to vaccinate their dogs in vain. Mandela says the health department has embarked on massive sensitization of the Public to avoid the risk of rabies.

Emmy Arinaitwe the Kitumba sub county LC V councilor has welcomed the introduction of the fine saying stray dogs have become a menace to the community. He faults dog owners for leaving them to roam around, which exposes residents to attacks. 

Patrick Besigye Keihwa, the Kabale LC Chairperson says they are determined to enforce the fine against those who do not want to cooperate. He says rabies do not only pose a threat to life but are also very expensive to treat since the district sometimes runs out of drugs. 

Keihwa says during such times they rush to Rushooka Health center in Kayonza sub county – Ntungamo District, which belongs to the Catholic Church.