Throughout the week of September 22-28, public health is observing Rabies Awareness Week. This leads up to World Rabies Day on Sunday, September 28, in order to shine a spotlight on this dangerous but preventable disease.
World Rabies Day is an international awareness campaign coordinated by the Global Alliance for Rabies Control, a non-profit organization with headquarters in the United States. Public health organizations across the world join together in this annual campaign.
World Rabies Day takes place each year on September 28, the anniversary of the death of Louis Pasteur who, with the collaboration of his colleagues, developed the first effective rabies vaccine in 1885.
Globally, rabies poses a risk to both humans and animals, both domesticated and wild. World Rabies Day provides information and advice on how to prevent the disease in at-risk communities, and support advocacy for increased efforts in rabies control.
Rabies remains a significant health problem in many countries of the world. Over 99% of all human deaths caused by rabid dog bites happen in the developing world, with 95% of deaths occurring in Africa and Asia. With the exception of Antarctica, people and animals on every continent are at risk of contracting rabies.
While the risk from domestic animals in the United States is much lower than many other countries, rabies still poses a very real risk to humans, domesticated animals, and wild animals.
There are several steps you can take to reduce the risk of rabies to you and your animals:
- Vaccinate pets: Work with your veterinarian to keep dogs and cats up-to-date on their rabies vaccinations.
- Supervise pets: Keep pets on your property and prevent them from roaming freely, which reduces their chances of encountering a rabid animal.
- Avoid contact with wildlife: Stay away from wild animals, including raccoons, skunks, bats, and foxes, and never attempt to feed or touch them. If you see a wild animal that appears ill, injured or orphaned, contact your nearest Department of Wildlife Resources office or licensed wildlife rehabilitator.
- Be cautious of stray or unfamiliar animals: Do not approach or try to pet stray or wild animals, even if they seem friendly.
- Report unusual animal behavior: If you see an animal exhibiting strange behavior, such as aggression or unusual tameness, report it to local animal control authorities.
- Secure garbage and pet food: Store garbage and pet food securely to avoid attracting wild animals to your property.
- Consider pre-exposure vaccination: If you work with animals or travel to areas with a high risk of rabies, consider pre-exposure vaccination, which can provide some protection and simplify post-exposure treatment.
If you have been exposed to rabies, take the following steps:
- Immediate wound care: If bitten or scratched by an animal, wash the wound thoroughly with soap and water for at least 15 minutes.
- Seek medical attention: Contact your doctor or local health department immediately after a potential rabies exposure.
- Post-exposure vaccination: If indicated, receive a series of rabies vaccines and, if necessary, rabies immunoglobulin (RIG) or monoclonal antibodies.
The Virginia Department of Health has a wealth of information about rabies and prevention tips; check out the VDH website for the latest information. Other great sources of rabies include the CDC Rabies website and the CDC Travelers’ Health website.