Centre for One Health Hosts Workshop on Rabies Elimination
Centre for-one-Health, NCDC (MoHFW), in collaboration with WHO, hosted a two-day regional workshop in New Delhi on 27-28 September to develop the State Action Plan for Dog-Mediated Rabies Elimination (SAPRE) for the Northern Region states. Day one focused on technical sessions and group activities to help states formulate their plans. On the second day, the Union Health Secretary launched the SAPRE for Tamil Nadu, Mizoram, and Meghalaya, along with guidelines for the Rabies-Free City Initiative.
A Collaborative Approach to Public Health
Rabies remains a significant public health concern, particularly in regions where dog populations are high and vaccination coverage is low. The Centre for One Health recognizes that a multi-sectoral approach is essential to tackle this complex issue. The workshop brought together health officials, veterinarians, and public health experts to foster collaboration and share best practices.
The event commenced with an overview of rabies epidemiology in India, highlighting the alarming statistics that continue to underscore the need for urgent action. Each year, thousands of lives are lost to rabies, a disease that is entirely preventable through vaccination. The first day was dedicated to technical sessions aimed at equipping participants with the necessary tools and knowledge to formulate effective state action plans.
Day One: Technical Sessions and Group Activities
The first day of the workshop was structured to include interactive technical sessions, where experts shared insights on various aspects of rabies control. Topics covered included the importance of vaccination, surveillance strategies, and community engagement. Participants were encouraged to ask questions and engage in discussions that could help them adapt the information to their specific regional contexts.
Group activities facilitated collaboration among participants, allowing states to discuss their unique challenges and opportunities. This brainstorming session was pivotal in identifying gaps in current rabies control efforts and generating innovative solutions tailored to local conditions. The exchange of ideas highlighted the importance of collective responsibility and unified action in combating rabies.
Day Two: Launching State Action Plans
The second day of the workshop saw a momentous occasion as the Union Health Secretary officially launched the SAPRE for three states: Tamil Nadu, Mizoram, and Meghalaya. This launch signifies a major step forward in the coordinated efforts to eliminate dog-mediated rabies in these regions. The SAPRE outlines specific goals, strategies, and actions that states can implement to effectively combat rabies.
Additionally, guidelines for the Rabies-Free City Initiative were introduced. This initiative aims to create cities that are free from rabies, focusing on vaccination, responsible pet ownership, and public awareness campaigns. The guidelines emphasize community participation as a critical component in achieving these objectives.
The Path Forward
The workshop concluded with a commitment to ongoing collaboration and knowledge sharing among participating states. The Centre for One Health and its partners will continue to provide support in implementing the action plans and monitoring progress.
As rabies is a disease that can be prevented through effective vaccination and public education, the workshop’s emphasis on a multi-sectoral approach is timely and essential. With the combined efforts of health professionals, government agencies, and community members, there is hope for a future where rabies is no longer a threat to public health.
Raising Awareness
World Rabies Day serves as a reminder of the ongoing efforts needed to raise awareness about rabies and the preventive measures available. The Centre for One Health aims to not only implement the SAPRE but also to engage communities in understanding the importance of vaccination and responsible pet ownership.
The collaborative efforts showcased during the workshop are indicative of a larger movement towards a healthier and safer environment for both humans and animals. By prioritizing rabies elimination, India can take significant strides toward safeguarding public health and ensuring a better quality of life for its citizens.
In conclusion, the recent workshop marks a pivotal moment in the fight against rabies in India, reinforcing the commitment to eliminate this preventable disease through effective planning, community engagement, and sustained collaboration across sectors. The Centre for One Health, alongside its partners, stands ready to lead this charge, aiming for a rabies-free future.
