[Rabies and mobility: 2025 update]

Area of Science:

• Veterinary Public Health
• Epidemiology
• Vaccinology

Background:

• Switzerland has maintained terrestrial rabies-free status for over two decades.
• Despite this, rabies and vaccination remain highly relevant due to increased human and animal mobility.
• The study addresses challenges including rising vaccine demand and recurrent supply shortages.

Purpose of the Study:

• To highlight key considerations for rabies prevention in Switzerland.
• To discuss the implications of increased mobility on disease transmission.
• To address the challenges posed by vaccine supply chain issues.

Main Methods:

• Review of current rabies epidemiology and control strategies in Switzerland.
• Analysis of factors contributing to increased vaccine demand.
• Examination of vaccine supply chain vulnerabilities.

Main Results:

• Terrestrial rabies has been absent in Switzerland for over 20 years.
• Global increase in human and animal travel elevates rabies risk.
• Vaccine shortages pose a significant threat to ongoing rabies prevention efforts.

Conclusions:

• Maintaining rabies-free status requires continuous vigilance and adaptation.
• Addressing vaccine supply chain resilience is critical for public and animal health.
• Proactive strategies are needed to manage the evolving challenges of rabies prevention.