Rabies Outbreak Hits Eastern Algeria: Fatalities and Urgent Mobilization

Fear has gripped cities in eastern Algeria in the past few hours, as rabies has struck with force, causing three deaths and several scattered cases, prompting health authorities to declare a state of extreme alert. In the province of Setif, specifically in the Qenzat area, a stray dog attacked residents, injuring 11 people, two of whom passed away yesterday, while the other cases remain 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 Frères Taoual 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, prompting 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 through the Director of Disease Prevention and Control, Samia Hamadi, that the country has made significant progress in eradicating the disease as part of a national plan aiming to achieve zero infections by 2030. She considered combating this disease a top health priority, highlighting that efforts focus on awareness, surveillance, 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.