Algeria has reaffirmed its commitment to enhancing efforts to prevent and combat rabies, with the goal of achieving zero human deaths by 2030. This commitment was made on the occasion of World Rabies Day, which is observed annually on September 28. The event was marked with the theme "One Health, Zero Deaths" and a national slogan "Together to Eliminate Rabies by 2030." The ceremony was attended by the representative of the World Health Organization, central administration officials, members of the National Committee for the Prevention and Control of Zoonotic Diseases, and experts in rabies prevention and control.
According to the Minister of Health, rabies remains a significant public health challenge globally, affecting over 150 countries and causing approximately 60,000 human deaths annually, mostly in Asia and Africa. In Algeria, the disease is still endemic, with an average of 15 human deaths reported each year, with over 40% of these deaths occurring in children under the age of 15. The primary source of infection for humans is the bite of an infected dog.
The Minister emphasized the importance of sustaining and strengthening preventive measures, including ensuring effective vaccination of animals, prompt and adequate care for individuals bitten by animals, and providing post-exposure prophylaxis. He also highlighted the need for intensified awareness and education campaigns, particularly for high-risk groups. Algeria has made significant gains in rabies control over the years, including the establishment of a multi-sectoral committee for zoonotic disease prevention and control.
The country has also maintained a team of experts responsible for rabies prevention and control, provided safe and effective vaccines free of charge, and adopted standardized protocols for patient care. Continuous training for healthcare professionals is also a priority. In collaboration with the World Health Organization, the Ministry of Health has developed a national strategic plan for rabies prevention and control from 2023 to 2027.
The plan aligns with the global strategy to eliminate human rabies transmitted by dogs by 2030 and is based on a "One Health" approach, integrating human, animal, and environmental health. The plan has five strategic axes: mass vaccination of dogs, population control and management of stray dogs, enhanced epidemiological surveillance, prompt care for bite victims, and nationwide awareness campaigns.
Achieving the goal of eliminating human deaths from rabies by 2030 requires the concerted efforts of various sectors and stakeholders, as well as strengthened coordination and cooperation among them. The active engagement of civil society and citizens in prevention and control efforts is also crucial. The Minister of Health expressed appreciation to the World Health Organization for its technical support and partnership in Algeria's efforts.
The organization has played a significant role in developing the national strategic plan for rabies prevention and control. Algeria's efforts to combat rabies reflect a broader commitment to improving public health and achieving the World Health Organization's global health goals. The country's progress in rabies control will be closely monitored, and further developments will be reported.
Key points
- Algeria aims to eliminate human deaths from rabies by 2030.
- The country has developed a national strategic plan for rabies prevention and control.
- Achieving the goal requires concerted efforts from various sectors and stakeholders.
