Dr. Ashaq Hussain
Awareness today is elimination tomorrow and don’t Let it Steal Lives instead get informed and immunize. Every year, on September 28th, we observe World Rabies Day. This Day serves as a solemn reminder of the ongoing battle against one of the deadliest viruses known to humanity. Rabies, caused by the rabies virus, is a zoonotic disease that primarily affects mammals, including humans. While significant strides have been made in rabies prevention and control, but still it remains a global health threat, causing tens of thousands of deaths annually. However, there is hope on the horizon with the ambitious goal of achieving “Rabies: Zero by 30” the theme for this year emphasizing the global effort to eliminate rabies as a public health threat by 2030.
A silent threat, a terror lurking near,
Through foaming jaws, it spreads its deadly fear
Rabies is a disease that has plagued humanity for centuries. It is a viral disease that affects the nervous system and is almost always fatal once symptoms appear. It primarily spreads through the saliva of infected animals, usually through bites or scratches. Dogs are the primary source of rabies transmission to humans, but it can also be transmitted by other animals such as bats, cats, and even livestock. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), rabies is responsible for approximately 59,000 human deaths annually, with over 95% of cases occurring in Asia and Africa. The majority of these deaths are children, often bitten by dogs infected with the virus.
Innocent creatures, both wild and tame,
Fall victim to this cruel and deadly game
Rabies knows no boundaries, affecting people and animals in both urban and rural areas. While rabies is entirely preventable through vaccination, the lack of access to vaccines and awareness in many parts of the world still leads to tragic outcome. Thus, the initiative to achieve “Rabies: Zero by 30” is an ambitious global campaign that aims to eliminate human deaths from dog-mediated rabies by the year 2030. This initiative was launched as a response to the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals, specifically Goal 3 – “Ensure healthy lives and promote well-being for all at all ages.”
Thus, the “Zero by 30” goal is not just a slogan; it’s a commitment to saving lives. The campaign focuses on several key strategies with the first and foremost step Mass Vaccination of Dogs: Vaccinating at least 70% of the dog population is crucial to creating a “herd immunity” that prevents the virus from spreading. This not only protects dogs but also reduces the risk of human transmission. The important issue to focus in this regard is Community Engagement. Educating communities about the importance of responsible pet ownership, rabies prevention, and seeking medical care after a potential exposure can be vital to reducing human rabies cases. Communities need to be educated about the risks of rabies and the importance of seeking immediate medical attention after a potential exposure. Awareness campaigns can dispel myths and misconceptions about rabies.
The second important factor to look over is access to Post-Exposure Prophylaxis (PEP), a series of rabies vaccinations given after exposure, must be readily available and affordable. No one should die from rabies due to a lack of access to treatment. In addition Continued research into rabies prevention and control methods, such as new vaccines or novel strategies, can accelerate progress toward the “Zero by 30” goal.
Lastly, achieving “Zero by 30” requires global solidarity and individual action. You as an individual can contribute to or volunteer with organizations working on rabies vaccination campaigns for animals in at-risk areas. Learn more about rabies and share information with your friends, family, and community. Dispelling myths and spreading awareness can save lives. Raise your voice to advocate for increased access to rabies vaccines and treatments in areas where they are lacking. Support policies and initiatives that prioritize rabies elimination and finally if you have pets, ensure they are vaccinated against rabies and keep them under control to reduce the risk of exposure to the virus. To conclude with:
For in this battle, we must unite,
To conquer rabies, with knowledge and light
To conclude with, World Rabies Day is not just a day of remembrance; it’s a day of action. The “Zero by 30” goal is ambitious, but it’s achievable with the collective efforts of governments, organizations, communities, and individuals. On this World Rabies Day and in the years to come, let us remember that together, we can make it a reality. Let’s work together to make “Zero by 30” a reality and ensure that no one suffers from this preventable disease in the future. Rabies: Zero by 30 – Let’s Make it Happen!
The Author is Associate Professor Chemistry at Govt. Degree College Chatroo
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