Rabies and the pandemic: lessons for One Health

Trans R Soc Trop Med Hyg. 2022 Mar 2;116(3):197-200. doi: 10.1093/trstmh/trab123.

Abstract

This article examines the impact of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) on dog-mediated rabies, a neglected tropical disease that remains endemic in >65 countries. A globally agreed strategy for rabies elimination is underpinned by a One Health approach, coordinating human and animal health sectors and engaging communities. We present data on the scale and nature of COVID-19 disruption to rabies control programmes and the wider learning for One Health implementation. We argue that the global shift in health priorities caused by the pandemic, and consequent side-lining of animal health, will have broader ramifications for One Health implementation and preparedness for future emergent zoonoses.

Keywords: COVID-19 pandemic; One Health; disease preparedness; neglected tropical diseases; rabies; rabies elimination.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Animals
  • COVID-19* / epidemiology
  • Dog Diseases* / epidemiology
  • Dog Diseases* / prevention & control
  • Dogs
  • Humans
  • One Health*
  • Pandemics / prevention & control
  • Rabies Vaccines*
  • Rabies* / epidemiology
  • Rabies* / prevention & control
  • SARS-CoV-2
  • Zoonoses / epidemiology
  • Zoonoses / prevention & control

Substances

  • Rabies Vaccines