The World Veterinary Association (WVA) and the World Medical Association (WMA) have urged for the inclusion of rabies education in school curricula due to the significant global threat posed by rabies, which puts approximately 4.6 billion people at risk. Children are particularly vulnerable to this disease. The medical associations emphasized that rabies, especially when transmitted through dog bites, disproportionately affects marginalized populations in resource-poor areas.
They pointed out that a large majority of rabies-related deaths could be prevented if more than 70 percent of dogs were vaccinated and if immediate wound cleaning and post-exposure treatment were provided to bite victims. Although the necessary tools to combat rabies are available, effectively implementing them remains a challenge.
The associations further stated that educating children about the risks associated with rabies and the essential preventive measures would empower the next generation to protect themselves and their communities. Dr. Osahon Enabulele, President of the World Medical Association, highlighted that the theme of this year's World Rabies Day, "All for 1, One Health for All," emphasizes the need for a comprehensive strategy to prevent human rabies deaths. This strategy involves increasing public awareness, effective risk communication, and educating communities and professionals about rabies.
Dr. Rafael Laguens, President of the World Veterinary Association, emphasized the importance of raising awareness among decision-makers in all countries regarding the accurate reporting of rabies data, as requested by international organizations like the World Health Organization (WHO) or the World Organization for Animal Health (WOAH). He stressed the need to educate politicians, as obtaining accurate data is crucial for efficient rabies eradication.
The goal of this year's World Rabies Day is to highlight the vital role of education in eliminating rabies transmitted through dog bites. The ultimate objective is to eliminate this deadly disease by 2030, as outlined in the "Zero by 30 plan" by WHO, the World Organisation for Animal Health (OIE), the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO), and the Global Alliance for Rabies Control (GARC).
The WVA and WMA are confident that prioritizing education through a One Health approach and community health strategies will lead to a future free from rabies. The rabies virus is responsible for causing rabies infections, which spread through the saliva of infected animals. Transmission occurs primarily through animal bites, and in rare cases, the virus can enter the body through open wounds or mucous membranes like the mouth or eyes.
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