The first World Rabies Day event was held on September 28, 2007, and has been held annually since then. The Global Alliance for Rabies Control is the World Rabies Day founder. The mission of World Rabies Day is to educate people about human and animal rabies, primarily the impact, prevention, and control of the disease.
Rabies virus is found in most countries around the world. There are a few isolated geographic areas that are rabies-free. Although humans can contract the virus from bats or other terrestrial mammals that are infected with rabies, greater than 90% of rabies cases in humans are from contact with infected dogs. Rabid dogs are the source of 99% of human rabies deaths. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), greater than 95% of human deaths from rabies virus infection occur in Asia and Africa.
Importance of Raising Awareness
- More than 55,000 people die from rabies annually, primarily in Asia and Africa
- 40% of children aged 5–14 years in Africa and Asia receive post-exposure prophylaxis for rabies
Statistics Since the First World Rabies Day
- 135 countries have held World Rabies Day events
- 4.6 million dogs have been vaccinated
- 150 million people have been educated about rabies
- Currently "Every major human and animal health partner at the international, national, state/provincial, and local levels" is involved in World Rabies Day
An Ounce of Prevention
Rabies vaccination and control of the dog population in underdeveloped countries could have a significant impact on this viral infection. Education of children and adults about the virus and how to act around dogs to avoid bites could have an impact as well. Empowering people by giving them the knowledge and the tools to educate others about the issue can make a difference.
Participation
Many countries around the world are participating in World Rabies Day with events ranging from educational seminars to vaccination clinics for dogs. Some low-cost spay and neuter clinics for pets are also being held to help control the stray population. There are educational opportunities planned in some cities and some online educational opportunities as well.
People interested in participating in World Rabies Day can educate themselves about the disease and ensure pets are current on rabies vaccinations. Teach children how to be safe around dogs and to tell an adult if there is a stray dog in the area, especially if it is acting strangely. Telling others about World Rabies Day is another way to help raise awareness.
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