Rabies ‘still a major problem’

Rabies is still a major problem affecting dogs throughout the world, with the animal health issue posing a significant risk to the health of humans too.

This is according to a new report from the Global Alliance for Rabies Control, which found that while many countries, including the UK, have managed to eradicate the disease from their dog population, poorer parts of the world are struggling to keep the life-threatening condition under control.

Figures show that around 160 people die due to rabies each day, with 60 percent of these deaths occurring in Asia and 36 percent in Africa. India alone accounts for 35 percent of fatal cases of the condition.

However, rabies is an easily preventable disease, with effective vaccines available to boost people's immune systems to stop them from contracting the illness from a dog bite or other form of contact with the infection.

The authors of the report stated: "Collaborative investments by medical and veterinary sectors could dramatically reduce the current large and unnecessary burden of rabies on affected communities."