A veterinarian in Bauchi, Dr Abdulkadir Baba, has warned that the ongoing harmattan season in the state could increase the risk of zoonotic diseases.
Baba gave the warning on Monday in an interview with reporters in Bauchi, attributing the heightened risk to dry and dusty weather conditions that favor the spread of infections from animals to humans.
He explained that rodents such as rats often migrate into homes during the harmattan in search of food, thereby increasing the risk of diseases such as Lassa fever, leptospirosis and Q fever through contact with rodent urine, droppings or contaminated dust.
Baba added that the season coincides with the dog reproductive cycle, which could lead to increased aggression and a higher risk of rabies transmission.
He also cautioned against anthrax, noting that its spores could be carried by strong harmattan winds and inhaled by humans.
The veterinarian advised the public to maintain good hygiene, keep homes free of rodents, ensure proper cooking of meat and dairy products, and avoid contact with stray animals during the season.
