Published: April 6, 2025
CONGO TOWN – Liberia is facing a growing rabies threat as the National Public Health Institute of Liberia (NPHIL) reports a sharp rise in dog bite cases, with 78 new incidents recorded nationwide in Epidemiological Week 13 of 2025 alone. Since the start of the year, the country has documented a staggering 930 cases of human exposure to animal bites, including four confirmed deaths.
According to NPHIL’s latest bulletin, Montserrado County recorded the highest number of cases (13), followed by Nimba (10), Grand Kru (9), Lofa (7), Grand Bassa (7), Maryland (7), and Margibi (5). Additional cases were reported in Rivercess (4), Bomi (3), Sinoe (3), Bong (3), Grand Gedeh (2), Gbarpolu (2), Grand Cape Mount (2), and River Gee (1).
NPHIL Director-General Dr. Dougbeh Chris Nyan expressed deep concern over the surge, warning that the situation demands urgent, coordinated action. “Rabies is a fatal but entirely preventable disease,” Dr. Nyan said. “We must intensify surveillance, raise public awareness, and ensure timely access to post-exposure prophylaxis (PEP) if we are to save lives.”
Despite the alarming rise, only 44% (34 out of 78) of the reported cases last week were investigated, casting doubt on Liberia’s capacity to contain and track potential outbreaks. Even more troubling, PEP—considered the most effective treatment following exposure—was administered to just three individuals, all in Bomi County.
The crisis has attracted the attention of the Africa Centres for Disease Control and Prevention (Africa CDC). In response, Regional Director Dr. Kokou Alinon said the agency is actively monitoring the situation and considering ways to support Liberia’s response.
“We recognize the critical challenges Liberia faces in controlling rabies,” Dr. Alinon stated. “Africa CDC stands ready to assist with strengthening surveillance systems, improving access to vaccines, and supporting urgent public health interventions.”
Rabies, one of the deadliest viral infections known to humans, has a nearly 100% fatality rate once symptoms appear. The World Health Organization (WHO) strongly recommends mass dog vaccination and widespread access to PEP in countries with high exposure risks.
Health officials are now urging citizens to take immediate preventive measures. NPHIL is calling on all pet owners to vaccinate their animals and encouraging communities to report stray or aggressive dogs. Anyone bitten by an animal is advised to seek medical attention promptly, as early treatment is essential to preventing rabies.
The Ministry of Health, in collaboration with NPHIL, says it is intensifying efforts to respond to the crisis but stresses that more support is needed from all fronts.
“We need all hands on deck,” said Dr. Caullau J. Howe, Assistant Minister for Prevention Services at the Ministry of Health. “Government agencies, development partners, and communities must unite to eliminate rabies from Liberia.”
As cases continue to mount, health authorities remain on high alert, appealing for increased international support to bolster national efforts aimed at curbing the spread of rabies and protecting vulnerable populations.
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