A staggering 26,000 people across Zimbabwe were bitten by dogs since January, raising alarm over public health and animal control efforts.
The Ministry of Health and Child Care revealed the grim tally in its latest disease surveillance report, which also noted 610 new dog bite cases in the week ending November 24.
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Concern After 26,000 People Were Bitten by Rabid Dogs in Zimbabwe This Year
Midlands Province recorded the highest number of recent attacks, with 105 cases reported, followed by Mashonaland West with 81.
Of the 610 incidents that week, 149 involved vaccinated dogs, 135 unvaccinated dogs, and 326 dogs of unknown vaccination status. Remarkably, there have been no reported fatalities from dog bites this year.
In addition to dog bites, the country reported 122 snake bites during the same week, bringing the total for 2024 to 3,539, with 15 deaths recorded.
Meanwhile, anthrax cases remain a concern, with 17 new cases in the Midlands Province, specifically Gokwe South and North districts. Cumulatively, Zimbabwe has seen 468 anthrax cases this year, all without fatalities.
Tighter Regulations
The growing number of dog attacks has prompted local authorities to tighten regulations. Harare City Council announced it will strictly enforce long-neglected by-laws requiring all dogs to be licensed. Households on plots smaller than 2,000 square meters are limited to two pets, while larger plots may have up to four.
ALSO READ: Owning Two or More Dogs Could Land You in Prison: City of Harare Issues Stern Warning
Higher fees will apply to owners of unspayed female dogs (dogs with their ovaries intact). Those who defy the local authority’s by-laws risk being imprisoned for six months, paying a fine, or both.
In Masvingo, the city council is considering drastic measures, including involving the Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals to cull stray dogs. This follows a surge in bites, with 87 cases reported this year in the city alone.
Authorities are calling for a coordinated effort to address the issue and protect both residents and animals.
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