World Health Organization Updates on Rabies and Global Response
While the majority of rabies cases stem from dog bites, the WHO highlights preventability through vaccination and post-exposure prophylaxis strategies.
The World Health Organization has shared updated information and global elimination efforts regarding rabies, a neglected viral disease. It was noted that 99% of human cases originate from dog bites, while effective protection methods and countries achieving success in this field were announced.
Global Dimension of Rabies
Rabies is a serious public health issue, particularly in Asia and Africa, leading to tens of thousands of deaths every year. Children under the age of 15 account for 40 percent of the lives lost.
Transmission Routes and Symptoms
99 percent of human rabies cases occur as a result of bites and scratches from infected dogs. Once the virus reaches the central nervous system and displays clinical symptoms, the disease results in death without exception.
Prevention and Treatment Methods
Rabies deaths can be completely prevented through timely administered post-exposure prophylaxis, which prevents the virus from reaching the central nervous system. This treatment process includes wound washing, vaccination courses, and immunoglobulin applications when necessary.
Global Goals and Achievements
The World Health Organization and its global partners are pursuing an approach that includes mass dog vaccination, training of healthcare workers, and community awareness to end dog-mediated human rabies deaths. As of September 17, 2026, Bhutan, Chile, and Mexico have been validated for the elimination of rabies.