World Rabies Day 2025 is observed every year on September 28. Since 2007, at least 12 countries in Asia, including Bangladesh, have been celebrating this day. The day is crucial for raising public awareness, preventing the disease, and ultimately aiming for the eradication of rabies.Rabies is a disease with a 100% fatality rate once symptoms appear. However, the good news is that it is completely preventable with timely preventive measures.
> Global Rabies Statistics
According to the World Health Organization (WHO):- * Approximately 59,000–60,000 people die from rabies every year worldwide. * About 95% of these deaths occur in Asia and Africa.
* 40% of those affected are children under 15 years old. * Around 15 million people are exposed to bites from dogs or other animals annually. * In Africa alone, about 21,000 people die every year.* After India, Bangladesh has the highest rabies death rate.These alarming statistics show that rabies remains a major public health issue in poor and developing countries.
> Rabies Situation in Bangladesh
Approximately 2,000 people die from rabies each year in Bangladesh.
Around 300,000 people seek hospital treatment due to dog or cat bites.
Dog control programs are still weak in many districts.
Timely access to vaccines is often limited.
People may delay treatment or rely on superstition, resulting in fatal outcomes.
Although official figures report 2,000 deaths, experts believe the actual number is higher due to inadequate data collection.
> Causes of Rabies
Rabies is a viral disease that attacks the nervous system.
The main transmission route is through saliva from infected animals.
In humans, the virus typically spreads via bites or scratches.
Dogs, cats, foxes, monkeys, jackals, and bats can transmit the disease.
Bites on the head and neck are the most dangerous, as the virus quickly reaches the brain.
The risk is higher in Bangladesh and many Asian countries due to stray dogs.
Immediate washing of the wound with soap and water is essential.
Without treatment, rabies symptoms are almost always fatal.
> Symptoms of Rabies
Incubation period: Usually 9–90 days; no symptoms appear during this time.
Once symptoms develop, survival is extremely unlikely.
Irritability: The patient may become unusually restless or irritable.
Abnormal behavior: Sudden changes such as anger, fear, or apathy.
Throat issues: Difficulty swallowing or hoarse voice.
Hydrophobia: Fear of water or its sound.
Sensitivity to light and sound: Fear of light or airflow.
Aimless movement: Wandering or inability to stay still.
Seizures and excessive salivation may occur.
Extreme fear and mental agitation are common.
> Diagnosis and Treatment
Infected animals should be immediately monitored.
Suspected human cases require rabies vaccination.
Deep or bleeding wounds require rabies immunoglobulin (RIG).
Once symptoms appear, there is no cure.
> Immediate Actions if Bitten
1. Wash the wound thoroughly with running water and soap for 15–20 minutes.
2. Apply iodine or antiseptic to the wound.
3. Visit a hospital immediately for vaccination.
4. Take RIG if required.
5. Avoid superstition and follow scientific medical advice.
> What Not to Do
Do not apply saline, ice, salt, or sugar to the wound.
Spells, charms, or ritualistic treatments are ineffective.
Do not cut, suck, or cover the wound.
Do not neglect the infected animal.
> Government Initiatives in Bangladesh
Since 2010, the government has implemented a national dog vaccination program.
Monthly vaccination campaigns are ongoing in cities and villages.
Catch-Neuter-Vaccinate-Release (CNVR) programs are in place.
Free vaccines are provided in public hospitals.
Awareness campaigns are conducted through schools, colleges, and media.
However, vaccine availability is still inconsistent nationwide.
> Social Superstitions and Barriers
Many still believe that rabies can be prevented by rituals or charms.
Some apply oil, salt, or plant extracts to bite wounds.
These practices put lives at serious risk.
> Successful Country Examples
Japan, Taiwan, and Australia have become rabies-free long ago.
Thailand and Sri Lanka have made significant progress through dog control, regular vaccination, and awareness campaigns.
Bangladesh could follow these models to become rabies-free within a few years.
> Expert Opinions
Mass Dog Vaccination (MDV) is crucial to prevent rabies.
Vaccinating at least 70% of dogs annually can stop the disease spread.
Human vaccines must be easily accessible.
Rural areas need 24-hour treatment centers.
> Future Goals
WHO aims to make the world rabies-free by 2030.
Bangladesh must increase dog birth control and vaccination.
School-based awareness programs should be implemented.
Every district hospital should have adequate vaccine supplies.
Local governments and NGOs must be actively involved.
Conclusion
Rabies is a 100% fatal viral disease, but with medical advances and awareness, it is entirely preventable. Vaccines are safe and effective even for pregnant women, newborns, and the elderly. Timely preventive measures can drastically reduce the risk of infection from animal bites.
Preventing rabies is not just personal health responsibility, but also a social obligation. Controlling stray animals and improving the local environment can significantly limit disease spread. Superstitions, ignorance, and misconceptions about vaccines hinder prevention efforts.
If the government, healthcare workers, and the public work together on regular preventive measures, rabies outbreaks can be fully controlled. By treating rabies as a preventable health risk rather than a curse, we can achieve quick and lasting results. Timely vigilance and awareness are the key.
The writer is a Physician, Columnist & Researcher
Founder & Chairman, jatio rogi kallaya Society. He can be reached at
