Every year on September 28, World Rabies Day is observed to raise awareness about the impact of the viral disease on humans and animals, provide information and advice on how to prevent the disease.
The World Health Organization (WHO) defines rabies as a vaccine-preventable, zoonotic, viral disease. The public health body warns rabies is virtually 100 per cent fatal and in up to 99 per cent of cases, domestic dogs are responsible for rabies virus transmission to humans. Rabies is spread to people and animals through bites or scratches, usually via saliva.
An average of 50 people are killed daily in India due to rabies. As per WHO, every year, the viral disease claims upto 20,000 lives in the country. India is endemic for rabies accounting for 36 per cent of 55,000 deaths worldwide.
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The WHO pointed out that rabies predominantly affects poor and vulnerable populations who live in remote rural locations. “Approximately 80 per cent of human cases [globally] occur in rural areas. Although effective human vaccines and immunoglobulins exist for rabies, they are not readily available or accessible to those in need,” stated WHO.
The public health body suggests immediate and thorough wound washing with soap and water after contact with a suspected rabid animal is crucial and can save lives.
On the occasion of World Rabies Day, Union Health Minister Mansukh Mandaviya launched the National Action Plan for Dog Mediated Rabies Elimination from India by 2030.
“Dedicating this day towards taking concrete action, spreading awareness & dispelling fear amongst the community to prevent rabies. Join the nation in our efforts to eliminate dog mediated rabies by 2030,” he tweeted.
This year, the theme for World Rabies day is ‘Rabies: Facts, not Fear’.
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