World Rabies Day 2024: Breaking Boundaries for Prevention

Theme and Significance

• World Rabies Day observed annually on September 28.
• Emphasizes need for progress beyond current limitations in rabies prevention and control
• Highlights importance of cross-sectoral and cross-border collaborations
• Promotes One Health approach, integrating human, animal, and environmental health efforts
• Aims to overcome geographic, socio-economic, and educational barriers
• Supports global goal of eliminating human deaths from dog-mediated rabies by 2030
• Emphasizes equality and strengthening overall health systems

History and Global Impact

• Launched in 2007 as the first global event focusing on rabies prevention
• Coordinated by the Global Alliance for Rabies Control (GARC)
• Rabies claims nearly 59,000 lives annually, 99% from dog bites
• Majority of deaths occur in low- and middle-income countries
• Almost 100% fatal once symptoms appear, but entirely preventable
• Primarily affects rural regions of Africa and Asia

Prevention and Control Strategies

• Vaccination is the cornerstone of rabies prevention
• Encourages mass vaccination programs for both animals and humans
• Post-exposure prophylaxis (PEP) crucial for humans after potential exposure
• Dog vaccination campaigns proven highly effective in controlling outbreaks
• Developed countries have nearly eradicated rabies through vaccination and PEP
• Challenges remain in parts of Africa and Asia due to limited vaccine access
• Promotes education on bite prevention and quick access to post-exposure treatment

Immediate Care Tips for Animal Bites

• Rinse wound thoroughly with soap and running water for 10-15 minutes
• Apply antiseptic like iodine solution or alcohol-based disinfectant
• Control bleeding with gentle pressure using clean cloth or bandage
• Cover wound with sterile bandage or clean cloth
• Seek immediate medical attention, regardless of bite severity
• Start rabies vaccine series if animal is potentially rabid
• Ensure tetanus shot is up to date