This years’ Global World Rabies Day celebrations took place on September 28^th, under the theme of “Act Now: You, Me, Communities”. Across the world, countries and communities mark World Rabies Day with a variety of activities. These include public awareness campaigns, free vaccination drives for pets, community education workshops, school competitions, and media engagements. The day provides an opportunity to spotlight local heroes and innovative approaches to rabies control.

Rabies is estimated to cause 59000 human deaths annually in over 150 countries, with 95% of cases occurring in Africa and Asia. The shocking case of a British woman who died from rabies after being scratched by a puppy in Morocco, highlights the significant role of travel and tourism in neglected tropical disease epidemiology and emphasizes the need for a multipronged One Health approach.

Travel and tourism play a significant role in the spread and epidemiology of rabies, particularly as people move between regions where the disease is endemic and areas where it is less common. Travelers may unknowingly come into contact with potentially rabid animals, especially in countries with high rates of rabies and limited control measures.

Incidents such as tourists being bitten or scratched by animals abroad underscore the importance of pre-travel education, vaccination, and awareness about local health risks. Additionally, increased movement of pets and stray animals across borders can facilitate the transboundary spread of rabies, making coordinated international surveillance and response efforts vital to effective control and prevention.

By working together, individuals, communities, and organizations can help ensure a safer and healthier future for all with zero deaths from rabies. Vaccination of dogs remains the most cost-effective strategy for preventing rabies in people, as over 99% of human cases are caused by dog bites. Increasing public awareness about the importance of timely post-exposure prophylaxis and responsible pet ownership is crucial in breaking the transmission cycle.

Collaborative efforts among governments, veterinary professionals, and local communities are essential to sustain effective surveillance and control measures. Educational campaigns that target both urban and rural populations can further empower individuals to recognize the risks associated with rabies and take preventive actions. Ultimately, a united global response is necessary to achieve the goal of eliminating rabies as a public health threat.

In addition, strengthening cross-border collaborations and harmonising rabies prevention strategies can help address the challenges posed by animal movements and transboundary disease spread. Integrating rabies control into broader public health and animal health initiatives will not only reduce the incidence of rabies but also build resilient health systems capable of responding to other zoonotic threats.

World Rabies Day serves as a powerful illustration of the creativity, dedication, and community spirit that drive progress toward a rabies-free world.