LABORATORY CONFIRMATION OF PARALYTIC RABIES IN A 2-YEAR-OLD INDIGENOUS DOG IN SOKOTO, NIGERIA: A CASE REPORT

Rabies is a fatal zoonotic disease caused by the rabies virus (RABV) that affects the central nervous system of mammals. Despite being preventable, it remains endemic in Nigeria due to low vaccination coverage, a large population of free-roaming dogs, and weak surveillance systems. This report describes a laboratory-confirmed case of paralytic (dumb) rabies in a 2-year-old indigenous dog in Sokoto State, Nigeria. The dog presented with excessive salivation, hyperesthesia, progressive flaccid paralysis, dehydration, anorexia, and inability to vocalize. There was no history of rabies vaccination. The animal had bitten a human unprovoked prior to presentation and died within 48 hours of admission to quarantine. Brain tissue samples were tested at the National Veterinary Research Institute using the direct fluorescent antibody test (DFAT), which demonstrated characteristic apple-green fluorescence confirming rabies infection. Following confirmation, exposed individuals were referred for post-exposure prophylaxis, and public health authorities initiated community sensitization and targeted dog vaccination. This case highlights persistent gaps in rabies control in Nigeria, particularly inadequate vaccination coverage and limited diagnostic decentralization. Strengthening surveillance systems, expanding diagnostic capacity, and sustaining mass dog vaccination within a One Health framework are essential to achieving the goal of eliminating dog-mediated human rabies by 2030.