World Rabies Day’s Fight Against a Silent Killer

Rabies, a deadly viral disease, has been haunting mankind for centuries. Transmitted to humans primarily through the bites of infected dogs, this disease boasts a near 100% fatality rate once clinical symptoms appear. Recognizing the need for heightened awareness and enhanced prevention mechanisms, “World Rabies Day” was instituted. Celebrated annually on September 28th, this day is dedicated to educating people about rabies prevention and control strategies (1).

What is Rabies?

Rabies is a zoonotic virus, meaning it can transfer from animals to humans. Once inside the host, the rabies virus affects the central nervous system, leading to a series of progressively worsening symptoms – from fever and headaches to hallucinations, paralysis, and ultimately, death.
Globally, rabies causes tens of thousands of deaths every year, with the majority occurring in Asia and Africa. Dogs contribute to up to 99% of all rabies transmissions to humans. Yet, this disease remains largely preventable through timely interventions, particularly vaccination.

Inception of World Rabies Day

The Global Alliance for Rabies Control (GARC) established World Rabies Day in 2007. The date, September 28th, holds significance as it marks the death anniversary of Louis Pasteur, the French scientist who developed the first effective rabies vaccine. The overarching goal of this day is to unite NGOs, communities, and governments to collectively endorse and execute effective strategies to prevent and control rabies globally.

Significance of World Rabies Day

• Educate and Raise Awareness:

  Despite its fatal nature, global awareness about rabies remains limited. World Rabies Day serves as a platform to educate the masses about the risks posed by rabid animals and the importance of vaccination.

• Promote Vaccination:

  Vaccination stands as the cornerstone in rabies prevention. Regular vaccination of domestic animals, especially dogs, can prevent rabies transmission to humans.

• Reinforce Control Measures:

  Beyond vaccination, controlling rabies also requires coordinated efforts like dog population control, responsible pet ownership, and public health education.

Key Things about Rabies that You Should Know

• Post-exposure prophylaxis (PEP):

  A treatment administered immediately after a potential rabies exposure (like a dog bite) to prevent virus onset. It includes wound washing, rabies immunoglobulin, and a series of rabies vaccinations.

• Pre-exposure prophylaxis:

  Vaccination administered to those at higher risk of rabies exposure, like veterinarians or travelers to rabies-endemic regions.

Rabies Control: The Road Ahead

While significant progress has been made, challenges persist. Rabies still lurks in many parts of the world, and its eradication necessitates a multidisciplinary approach.

• Enhanced Surveillance and Reporting:

  Accurate data on rabies cases can guide interventions. Implementing robust surveillance systems can ensure that every case is reported and managed.

• Community Engagement:

  Grassroots-level awareness campaigns can sensitize communities about rabies risks and the importance of timely medical interventions.

• Strengthening Veterinary Infrastructure:

  Investing in veterinary services, ensuring regular animal vaccinations, and controlling stray dog populations can considerably reduce rabies threats.

World Rabies Day 2023: The Current Focus

For World Rabies Day 2023, the emphasis is on “Rabies: Facts, not Fear.” This theme underscores the importance of disseminating factual information about rabies, debunking myths, and alleviating unwarranted fears. Through education, the global community aims to drive home the message that rabies is 100% preventable.