Elimination of dog-mediated human rabies: scientific tools, One Health and partnerships.

Abstract

A world free of dog-mediated human rabies by 2030 would be an outstanding achievement. This ambitious goal for a neglected tropical disease, set by the World Organisation for Animal Health (WOAH), the World Health Organization, the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations and the Global Alliance for Rabies Control together with partners and countries, has a clear and achievable pathway to success. In the 100 years since the inception of WOAH, many scientific tools have been developed to support the elimination of dog-mediated rabies. In addition to these tools, engaging communities and health workers to build awareness to prevent bite exposures, managing dog populations and ensuring herd immunity through dog vaccination are key to achieving the elimination goals. The provision of post-exposure prophylaxis and care for exposed victims are important interventions on the human side. Success in eradicating rabies will require applying a One Health approach, an integrative and systemic approach to health grounded in the understanding that human health is closely linked to animal and environmental health. Political commitment and availability of adequate resources are key to achieving the Zero by 2030 goal.