FAO, OIE and WHO unite to eliminate human rabies and control the disease in animals

On the World Rabies Day (28 September 2013), FAO, OIE and WHO unite in their goal to eliminate human rabies and control the disease in animals. Every year, an estimated 60,000 people die an agonizing death from rabies, many of whom are children bitten by rabies-infected dogs. Elimination of rabies requires consistent and sustained commitment, underpinned by strong health and veterinary systems. Different sectors and disciplines need to collaborate closely, and World Rabies Day is an opportunity to establish or strengthen these links. Regional elimination of human rabies transmitted by dogs has been outlined by Latin American countries for 2015 and south-east Asia for 2020. FAO, OIE and WHO are working together to raise global awareness and commitment to step-up the fight against rabies.

Source: World Health Organization