Rabies Still Kills Tens of Thousands Each Year Despite Available Prevention

LAMU, Kenya, Sep 29- As the world marks World Rabies Day, experts are sounding the alarm over the continued toll of rabies a deadly but preventable disease that claims tens of thousands of lives every year.

World Health Organization (WHO) reports that an estimated 59,000 people die annually from rabies, with the majority of cases occurring in Africa and Asia with most of the victims being children living in rural areas, where access to vaccines and treatment is limited.

Rabies spreads through the bite or scratch of an infected animal, most often dogs. Once symptoms such as fever, agitation, muscle spasms, or hydrophobia appear, the disease is almost always fatal.

Health specialists emphasize that vaccinating dogs is the single most effective way to stop transmission.

However, in Kenya, The Donkey Sanctuary, working with the Lamu County Government has led a three-year campaign to vaccinate dogs and donkeys.

The program has achieved significant success, and the organization believes such efforts should be expanded worldwide to meet the global target of eliminating rabies by 2030.

Dr. Solomon Onyango, Country Director of The Donkey Sanctuary in Kenya, urged immediate medical response after potential exposure.

“Anyone bitten by a suspected rabid animal should seek post-exposure prophylaxis (PEP) without delay.

This life-saving vaccine series is critical. Protecting donkeys is also vital, as they play an essential role in supporting rural livelihoods,” Said Dr. Onyango.

This year, The Donkey Sanctuary partnered with the Kenya Veterinary Association, KSPCA, and other stakeholders in Naivasha to raise awareness and vaccinate more animals against the disease.

Global organizations including WHO, the World Organisation for Animal Health, and UNICEF have pledged to end human deaths from dog-mediated rabies by 2030.

Health experts continue to call on communities to vaccinate their pets, avoid contact with stray animals, and report animal bites promptly.

“With awareness and consistent prevention measures, rabies can be eliminated once and for all”.