For the first time in its 19-year history, World Rabies Day (WRD) will not feature the word “rabies” in its theme, according to the World Health Organization (WHO). This year’s theme, “Act now: you, me, communities,” emphasizes the importance of collective responsibility and encourages individuals to take action to foster meaningful change, particularly on September 28th, designated as WRD.
The WHO calls on everyone—individuals, organizations, and policymakers—to act without delay. Suggested personal actions include vaccinating pets, gaining knowledge on rabies prevention and treatment, and advocating for improved policies. Individuals can also lead by example, inspiring others, training professionals, or backing local rabies elimination initiatives. Furthermore, collaboration is encouraged through community vaccination campaigns, educational outreach for families, and advocating for enhanced rabies eradication programs.
As a neglected tropical disease (NTD), rabies disproportionately impacts underserved populations, especially in Africa and Asia. Despite its severity, rabies is a 100% preventable disease. Awareness of dog bite prevention and proper responses post-bite are vital, as timely intervention can prevent fatal outcomes.
To aid community awareness, WHO has created an array of educational films tailored to various audiences. One film instructs children on responsible behavior around dogs and the importance of reporting bites or scratches to an adult. Another targets parents, teachers, and the broader community, emphasizing the necessity of immediate wound washing after a bite. A third film addresses community health workers, outlining crucial actions to take before seeking professional medical advice.
Additionally, global efforts to eliminate rabies have been incorporated into Gavi’s 5.0 vaccine investment strategy. Five nations—Tanzania, Madagascar, Côte d’Ivoire, Yemen, and Syria—have sought support for these initiatives. The introduction of an Integrated Bite Case Management (IBCM) flyer and checklist serves as a practical guide for countries to implement IBCM effectively, detailing essential processes and prerequisites involved.
The WHO Global Health Observatory has been updated to include new rabies data, providing a clearer understanding of global advancements and existing gaps in data collection and surveillance.
Published on September 22, 2025.
