Rabies Strikes Eastern Algeria: Fatalities and Urgent Alert

Fear has swept through cities in eastern Algeria in the past few hours, as rabies has struck forcefully, resulting in three deaths and scattered cases of infection, prompting health authorities to declare a state of extreme alert. In the region of Qenza in the province of Setif, a stray dog attacked residents, causing injuries to 11 people, two of whom passed away yesterday. The remaining cases are still under observation and treatment. In Mila province, another tragic incident occurred, claiming the life of an 18-year-old young man who was scratched by a stray cat he had adopted without realizing it was infected with the disease. The young man was taken to the Taouba Brothers Hospital but unfortunately passed away there. These incidents bring to mind a similar event that occurred some time ago in the municipality of Baraki, where a rabid dog caused panic by attacking several residents, leading the authorities to issue an official warning urging parents not to allow children to go out until the situation is under control. The Algerian Ministry of Health had previously issued warnings about the possibility of a rabies outbreak, emphasizing the importance of combating the disease. The country has made significant progress in eradicating the disease as part of a national plan aiming to achieve zero infections by 2030. The fight against rabies is considered a top health priority, focusing on awareness, monitoring, widespread vaccination, and coordination between various sectors from agriculture to religious affairs. Rabies, known for its high severity, usually spreads to humans through the saliva of infected animals, particularly through biting or scratching. It is a deadly disease if not treated promptly, making prevention and rapid intervention an urgent necessity.