Libreville, September 28, 2023 (AGP) – Every September 28 of the year, the whole world mobilizes to commemorate World Rabies Day, to raise public awareness of this deadly disease, but also to celebrate the progress made in prevention and treatment of rabies.
Rabies, which remains a serious threat to public health in many parts of the world, is entirely preventable through vaccination and education.
It is a viral disease transmitted through the saliva of an infected animal, most often through a bite or scratch. It attacks the central nervous system and, once symptoms appear, is almost always fatal. The burden of rabies is particularly high in developing countries, where access to effective post-exposure treatments is limited.
Fortunately, rabies vaccination remains the cornerstone of rabies prevention. Administering a series of vaccines after potential exposure to the virus can save lives. However, public awareness of the need to seek medical attention after an animal bite and accessibility to vaccines remain major challenges.
Therefore, World Rabies Day aims to highlight these issues and encourage governments and health organizations to invest in vaccination and awareness campaigns.
Another crucial approach in combating rabies is vaccination of domestic animals, particularly dogs, which are responsible for the majority of cases of rabies transmission to humans. Well-organized animal vaccination campaigns can break the chain of virus transmission and significantly reduce the risk to humans.
Besides, education also plays a vital role in rabies prevention. Populations must be informed of the dangers of the disease, the measures to take in the event of an animal bite, and the importance of vaccination. Schools, media and local communities have a crucial role to play in disseminating this vital information.
This celebration is an opportunity to remind the world that rabies is a preventable disease. Together, we can work to eliminate this public health threat by investing in vaccination, education and awareness. Every life saved through these efforts is a victory against rabies, and we must continue to fight until this disease is a distant memory.
MBKN/CBO/FSS
