For the first time in its 19-year history, WRD's (World Rabies Day) theme does not include the word "rabies", says the World Health Organization. This year's WRD (September 28) theme - "Act now: you, me, communities" - calls on us to take responsibility, work together, and drive real change.
Whether you are an individual, part of an organisation, or a decision-maker, the time to act is today, the UN Health Agency said, calling on individuals to a) take action in your personal life by vaccinating your dog, educating yourself about how to prevent rabies and pre- and post-exposure prophylaxis, or advocate for better policies; b) lead by example by inspiring others, training professionals, or supporting rabies elimination efforts in your community; and c) work together by organising vaccination campaigns, educating learners and their families, and push for stronger rabies elimination programs.
As a neglected tropical disease (NTD), rabies disproportionately affects underserved communities, mainly in Africa and Asia. But death from rabies is 100 per cent preventable. Awareness about dog bite prevention and what to do in the event of a dog bite is critical. Rabies need not be fatal if all the post exposure steps are taken.
WHO has developed a series of education films to support community understanding. The films are aimed at different audiences. For children, the focus is how to behave responsibly around dogs and the importance of telling an adult if they are bitten or scratched by an animal. For parents, teachers and the community, a second film focuses on the critical importance of immediate wound washing in the event of a bite. For community health workers, the third film highlights the important steps to be taken prior to seeking further clinical advice.
Global rabies elimination efforts has been included in Gavi's 5.0 vaccine investment strategy, and five countries -- Tanzania, Madagascar, Côte d'Ivoire, Yemen, and Syria -- have applied for support. A new Integrated Bite Case Management (IBCM) flyer and checklisthas been developed as a practical, how-to guide to IBCM. The checklist offers clear process for IBCM, outlining the main benefits as well as the pre-requisites with practical information for countries on how to prepare for IBCM.
The WHO Global Health Observatory has also been updated to include new data on rabies, supporting data-driven policy and programming. This platform offers a clearer picture of global progress and remaining gaps in data and surveillance.
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Published on September 22, 2025
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