World Rabies Day

World Rabies Day History

World Rabies Day is a global observance that aims to raise awareness about rabies and its prevention. It seeks to unite relevant organizations and individuals to spread knowledge on controlling and eradicating this disease. Rabies, a fatal but preventable viral disease, primarily affects mammals, including humans, and is transmitted through the bite of an infected animal. Awareness about vaccination, animal control, and responsible pet ownership are crucial aspects of preventing the disease.

In India, rabies remains a significant public health concern, with the country accounting for over 35% of the global human rabies deaths annually. Initiated in 2007 by the Global Alliance for Rabies Control, World Rabies Day gains particular importance for India as it confronts this challenge. The burden of rabies is high, particularly in rural areas, where most of the affected population lives. Stray dogs are a primary transmission source; hence, controlling their population and immunization are crucial factors in disease prevention.

To commemorate World Rabies Day in India, various initiatives include free vaccination camps for pets, seminars on rabies awareness, and distributing educational materials. State and local governments, NGOs, and animal welfare organizations collaborate in these efforts to provide essential services and spread the message of rabies prevention. Additionally, school children are educated on responsible pet ownership and bite prevention. World Rabies Day is observed annually on September 28th, ensuring a consistent focus on this critical public health issue in India.

World Rabies Day facts

• The theme for World Rabies Day in 2025 was Let's #EndRabiesTogether. In 2024 the theme was Breaking Rabies Boundaries.
• Common rabies carriers include; raccoons, bats, skunks, and foxes.
• Dog bites are the main source of human rabies deaths, contributing up to 99% of all rabies transmissions to humans.
• Over 95% of human rabies cases in India result from dog bites, with stray dogs being the primary source of infection.
• It is estimated that around 15 million people in India are bitten by dogs annually, with children being the most vulnerable age group due to their close interaction with animals and lack of caution.

In the News and Trending in India for World Rabies Day

Top things to do in India for World Rabies Day

• Make sure pet's vaccines are up to date.
• Look for scientific articles, research papers, and publications related to rabies in India. These sources often provide in-depth information about the disease, its transmission, treatment options, vaccination programs, and public health initiatives.
• Many NGOs in India work towards rabies prevention and control. Research and identify reputable organizations and find out how you can volunteer or support them remotely. They might provide educational materials, webinars, or virtual workshops.