PUBLIC HEALTH ALERT: Rabies Outbreak Hits Thika, County Rolls out Free Vaccination Drive for Dogs and Cats

Residents of Thika Sub-County have been urged to take advantage of a free rabies vaccination campaign for dogs and cats following confirmed reports of a rabies outbreak in several wards.

In a public notice dated April 9, 2026, the County Government of Kiambu, through the Department of Agriculture, Livestock and Cooperative Development, announced the rollout of the vaccination exercise aimed at containing the spread of the deadly disease.

The initiative, being coordinated by the Veterinary Office in Thika Sub-County, will run from April 13 to April 22, 2026, covering multiple locations to ensure wide accessibility for residents.

According to the notice signed by Dr. K. Maina, the Veterinary Officer in charge of Thika Sub-County, the campaign is a proactive response to rising rabies cases and seeks to protect both animals and humans from infection.

“Following reports of a rabies outbreak in different wards of Thika Sub-County, this office has organized free vaccination campaigns for dogs and cats,” the notice stated.

The exercise will kick off on Monday, April 13, at Kiandutu, specifically at the open field between Palea and Broadways Secondary School. 

Here is the vaccination schedule as outlined in the notice, arranged by date and venue:

Monday, 13th April 2026

• Kiandutu (open field between Palea Millers & Broadways Secondary School) 

Tuesday, 14th April 2026

•  Karibaribi – Ha Kihonge Junction

•  Kiang'ombe Chief's Camp 

Wednesday, 15th April 2026 

•  Athena Chief's Camp

•  Kimuchu Primary Grounds 

Thursday, 16th April 2026

•  Kisii Estate – Chief's Camp 

Friday, 17th April 2026 

•  Mukunike (Kilimambogo)

•  Mbagathi Primary Grounds 

Monday, 20th April 2026

•  Ndula Shopping Centre

•  Magogoni – Kona Mbaya 

Tuesday, 21st April 2026

•  Magogoni Shopping Centre

•  Mathathia Primary Grounds

•  Powerline 

Wednesday, 22nd April 2026

•  Gatiiguru

•  Ngoliba Shopping Centre (opposite Dispensary)

Residents have been encouraged to present their pets at the designated venues on the specified dates to ensure they are vaccinated.

Rabies is a fatal viral disease that can be transmitted to humans through bites or scratches from infected animals, particularly dogs. Health officials emphasize that vaccination remains the most effective way to prevent its spread.

The county government has called for full public cooperation, noting that widespread participation in the exercise will be critical in curbing the outbreak and safeguarding community health.