Rabies response, One Health and more-than-human considerations in Indigenous communities in northern Australia

Area of Science:

• Veterinary Public Health
• Zoonotic Disease Ecology
• Community-Based Participatory Research

Background:

• Rabies poses an increasing threat to northern Australia due to its spread in eastern Indonesia.
• Domestic dogs in East Arnhem Land (EAL) and Northern Peninsular Area (NPA) are numerous and closely integrated with human populations.
• Current rabies response strategies may include dog vaccination, movement control, and depopulation.

Purpose of the Study:

• To explore community perspectives on rabies response measures in EAL and NPA.
• To identify barriers and enablers for community participation in biosecurity responses.
• To inform a culturally appropriate and effective One Health approach to rabies prevention.

Main Methods:

• Conducted 5 collaborative workshops and 28 semi-structured interviews with EAL/NPA community members, Indigenous Rangers, and Cairns residents.
• Utilized storyboard methodologies to understand community views on justified/unacceptable rabies response measures.
• Gathered insights on cultural norms, infrastructure, and information needs related to biosecurity.

Main Results:

• Community capacity for biosecurity response is limited by structural disadvantages like poor infrastructure and information access.
• Cultural norms and the social/cultural importance of dogs and dingoes influence acceptance of interventions.
• Adaptation of interventions to local contexts and community preferences is essential for success.

Conclusions:

• A strengths-based, community-centered approach is necessary for rabies preparedness in high-risk areas.
• Addressing educational and infrastructural needs is vital for effective community engagement in biosecurity.
• Successful rabies control requires integrating interventions with cultural beliefs and local dog management practices.