The Global Framework to eliminate rabies deaths by 2030

On March 16th, the OIE and WHO, FAO and GARC released the final version of the global framework for the elimination of dog-mediated human rabies. The final document reflects discussions and feedback from the nearly 300 participants at the Global Conference, Global elimination of dog-mediated human rabies: The time is now, held in Geneva on 10-11 December 2015. Its agreement represents a milestone in efforts to eliminate canine rabies. 

Built on the five pillars of rabies elimination (STOP-R), the action plan combines socio-cultural, technical, organisational, political, and resource-oriented aspects, and it emphasises three key aspects of rabies control. First, the most cost-effective way to eliminate rabies is to prevent it at source, through mass vaccination of dogs. Second, human vaccine must be accessible and affordable for those people potentially exposed to rabies. Third, there is a need for education and increased awareness of all aspects of rabies control.

Commenting on the framework, Prof. Louis Nel, Executive Director of GARC said:  “This framework demonstrates wide-ranging cooperation and consensus on a clear path forward. With such a cohesive approach, we are taking the first bold strides towards the global elimination of this gruesome disease."

A new campaign coordinated by GARC, End Rabies Now, is working to increase the visibility of rabies on the international health agenda and among policymakers, in support of the global framework towards rabies elimination.

 

Submitted by Louise Taylor, GARC. The full conference report is available here.