Although it is 100% preventable through vaccination, Rabies remains a disease that every year affects thousands of people and animals in different parts of the world.
The non -vaccinated dog continues to be one of the main transmitters, which makes canine immunization a fundamental tool to cut the chain of infection and safeguard public health.
What is anger?
Rabies is a viral disease that It affects the central nervous system of mammals, including human beings. Once the symptoms appear – such as fever, headache, muscle spasms, confusion and, in advanced phases, paralysis – the disease is practically deadly. Therefore, prevention by vaccination is considered the most effective measure to avoid tragedies.
The virus is mainly transmitted through the saliva of an infected animal, usually by bites. You can also enter the organism if saliva comes into contact with open or mucous wounds, such as eyes or mouth. Dogs are the main transmitters in many countries, although other animals such as cats, bats, foxes and mapaches can also spread it.
In countries where daily interaction between humans and animals is high, as in large part of Latin Americathe prevention of rabies becomes double importance: not only protects the lives of pets, but also the well -being of families and the security of communities.
According to the World Health Organization (WHO)vaccinating at least 70% of the dogs in a population is sufficient to eliminate or prevent outbreaks. However, the strategy does not end there: community education and awareness are key elements for protection to be maintained over time.
“Rabia is still a serious threat to people and animals, but it is completely preventable. Vaccinating dogs is the most effective way to protect everyone, and the responsible care of animals helps to keep the communities safe and healthy,” said the veterinarian Audrey Kauffmann.
Canine immunization is also the most accessible and sustainable route compared to emergency treatments required by people exposed to bites. Protecting dogs means attacking the problem from the root, reducing risks and costs for health systems.
In this context, international initiatives such as Healtha program promoted by MSD Animal Health since 1996, have demonstrated the impact of joint action. The initiative combines donations of antirrabic vaccines, massive immunization campaigns and training workshops in communities where anger remains endemic.
To date, More than 7 million vaccines have been delivered through AFYA, along with training that have reached more than 12 million people In Africa, Asia and Latin America.
The international goal, backed by WHO and various health entities, is clear: a future free of rage by 2030. To achieve it, Experts agree that the combination of mass vaccination of dogs and community education programs will continue to be the most effective formula to end this silent but lethal threat.
