United Against Rabies Forum: The One Health Concept at Work.

Area of Science:

• Public Health
• Veterinary Medicine
• Zoonotic Disease Research

Background:

• Human rabies deaths are preventable but remain a significant global health issue, causing an estimated 59,000 fatalities annually.
• Rabies is predominantly a disease of poverty, linked to dog bites in neglected communities, imposing substantial economic burdens.
• The 'Zero by 30: The Global Strategic Plan' outlines a framework for eliminating human deaths from dog-mediated rabies by 2030.

Purpose of the Study:

• To highlight the continued threat of rabies and the need for a systematic One Health approach for its elimination.
• To emphasize that rabies control programs can strengthen One Health capacities for preventing other zoonotic diseases and pandemics.
• To advocate for increased political engagement and resource mobilization to achieve global rabies elimination goals.

Main Methods:

• The study reviews the global strategy for rabies elimination and the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on control efforts.
• It discusses the role of the United Against Rabies Forum in promoting cross-sector collaboration and supporting national elimination efforts.
• The abstract emphasizes the importance of a One Health framework for addressing zoonotic threats.

Main Results:

• Despite proven strategies, rabies mortality remains high, with efforts hindered by the COVID-19 pandemic.
• The COVID-19 pandemic underscored the value of a One Health approach for zoonotic disease prevention.
• Rabies control initiatives provide a practical pathway to building One Health capacities.

Conclusions:

• Achieving global rabies elimination requires enhanced political will and resource mobilization at both international and national levels.
• Implementing a One Health approach is crucial for rabies control and for addressing other zoonotic threats.
• Cross-sector collaboration, as promoted by the United Against Rabies Forum, is essential for accelerating progress.