Warning Issued Over Rising Cases of Animal Rabies in Kasserine Region
Dr. Lotfi Sayahi, head of the animal production division at the Regional Commission for Agricultural Development (CRDA) in Kasserine, has sounded the alarm. A warning notice published at the end of January follows a worrying increase in cases of animal rabies in the region, particularly among ruminants, marking an alarming evolution compared to previous years.
Alarming Progression Since the Beginning of 2026
Speaking to the Tunis Afrique Presse agency, Dr. Sayahi presented a numerical assessment of the situation. While the region recorded 64 cases in 2024 and 63 in 2025, the year 2026 starts with an early acceleration of the epidemic. For the month of January alone, six cases have already been confirmed, affecting two cows, two donkeys, one sheep, and one goat. This trend demonstrates that the virus is actively circulating beyond the usual vectors.
The Underestimated Risk of Transmission by Herbivores
This resurgence has led agricultural authorities to raise awareness among the population about a crucial point: rabies is not limited to dogs and cats. The expert emphasizes that herbivorous animals, whether in stables or at home, can transmit the virus to humans through a simple bite. Faced with this danger, the head of animal production urges farmers to imperatively shelter their livestock in closed and secure enclosures, while keeping them strictly away from stray or domestic animals that may be infected.
Citizen Vigilance for a "Zero Human Cases" Objective
The call for vigilance also addresses all citizens, inviting them to take any animal aggression seriously. In the event of a bite by a mammal, whether a predator or a herbivore, the protocol requires immediate attendance at the nearest health center to receive preventive care, which is completely free. Dr. Sayahi reminds us that all mammals can transmit the disease, with only birds being exempt.
Conclusion
The authorities' objective is to achieve zero human rabies cases while limiting losses among livestock. Dog and cat owners who did not participate in the last vaccination campaign, which ended in November 2025, are strongly encouraged to regularize their animals' situation at the permanent centers in Kasserine city or the agricultural extension cells to preserve public health. Read also: Kasserine: CRDA Warns of Rising Animal Rabies Cases
