From Knowledge to action: Standing together against rabies

Rabies is one of the oldest disease affecting animals and humans with major public health problem in India. In humans, it is fatal once the clinical signs develops. India records 5,726 to 20,000 human rabies deaths every year. Despite the availability of highly effective anti-rabies vaccines and immunoglobulins, rabies remains a significant public health challenge, with control and elimination yet to be achieved in many regions. An effective rabies control strategy requires a comprehensive understanding of the epidemiology of animal bites and rabies, as well as the various factors influencing timely and appropriate post-exposure prophylaxis. Primary prevention remains a cornerstone of rabies control and should include effective Animal Birth Control (ABC) programmes and comprehensive vaccination of dogs. Rabies should be accorded high priority as a public health concern, with access to safe and effective cell-culture-based rabies vaccines ensured at all government healthcare facilities. Equally important are measures to enhance community awareness, promote responsible interaction with animals, and educate the public about appropriate first-aid measures following animal bites.