Rabies is preventable. So, what are we waiting for? In this blog, we show you why preventing rabies is so important, and the progress that has already been made in combating the virus.
Understanding rabies
Rabies is a zoonotic disease, meaning it can be transmitted from animals to humans once symptoms appear. It is 100% fatal. Dogs play a major role in transmitting rabies to humans and are responsible for 99% of infections. The virus spreads through saliva, usually via a bite or scratch, or through direct contact of saliva with an open wound. The most vulnerable group consists of children between the ages of 5 and 14. The fact sheet from the World Health Organization (WHO) provides more detailed information about this disease.
Every 9 minutes, a life is lost to rabies. The scale of the problem becomes clear when we realise that 29 million people seek life-saving treatment every year. Infections are not only caused by the virus itself, but also by poverty and unequal access to healthcare.
Vaccinating our pets
Imagine a world where millions of cats and dogs live safer lives thanks to the dedication of veterinary professionals. Each year, more than 40 million pets receive a rabies vaccination. Wildlife biologists also administer around 10 million rabies vaccinations to wild animals, reducing the risk of transmission to humans. These efforts highlight the importance of mass dog vaccination campaigns in controlling rabies. For more information, see the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).
Rabies prevention is part of the “One Health” approach, which recognises the connection between human, animal, and environmental health. This approach involves multiple sectors and local communities to raise awareness and carry out large-scale vaccination campaigns. More information can be found at the World Organisation for Animal Health (WOAH).
There are many challenges in the fight against rabies. In low-income regions, treatment is often unaffordable. In Africa, treatment costs around $40, and in Asia around $49. For communities where the average daily income is only $1–2, these costs are extremely high. However, there is a more effective and affordable solution: vaccinating dogs. A single dog vaccination costs approximately $3. This approach offers real hope for eliminating rabies.
Rabies prevention brings together communities, scientists, and healthcare professionals. Vaccination plays a key role in protecting both animals and humans. As we conclude this overview, it is important to remember that our actions can save lives and prevent unnecessary suffering. We invite you to support and spread awareness about rabies prevention. Share this blog, support organisations working to eliminate rabies, and inform others about the importance of vaccination.
Your donation can make a real difference in the fight against rabies and help save lives. Together, we can move closer to a world where rabies is a thing of the past, and both people and animals can live without fear of this deadly disease.
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