Assessment of Rabies Awareness and Dog Vaccination Coverage in Enugu State

Rabies remains a fatal yet vaccine-preventable zoonotic disease causing significant mortality in sub-Saharan Africa. This study assessed rabies awareness levels and dog vaccination coverage in selected urban and peri-urban communities in Enugu State, South East Nigeria. A community-based cross-sectional survey was conducted involving 200 dog-owning households randomly selected across four communities. Structured questionnaires were used to evaluate respondent knowledge of rabies transmission, clinical signs, and post-exposure prophylaxis. Vaccination status of owned dogs was assessed through owner report and vaccination card review. Results showed that 54% of respondents had heard of rabies, but only 29% correctly described transmission routes. Only 21.5% of owned dogs had received at least one rabies vaccination in the past 12 months. Low vaccination uptake was associated with cost barriers, limited access to veterinary services, and disbelief in the disease's severity. The study concludes that current dog vaccination coverage falls far below the 70% threshold required for herd immunity against rabies. Scaled-up mass dog vaccination campaigns, community mobilization, and improved access to affordable veterinary care are essential to achieve rabies elimination targets consistent with the global 2030 Zero by 30 initiative. Keywords: rabies, dog vaccination, zoonosis, Enugu State, public health