Rabies is a viral disease that targets the central nervous system and is typically fatal once symptoms manifest. Despite significant advancements in medicine and the availability of an effective vaccine, rabies continues to pose a threat globally, present on every continent except Antarctica.
Consider this: it is estimated that approximately 60,000 people worldwide die from rabies each year, with 40% of these deaths occurring in children under the age of 15. The mortality rate for rabies is an alarming 99% in both humans and animals. However, the encouraging aspect is that rabies is 100% preventable through the vaccination of dogs and cats. Therefore, it is safe to say that the main cause of rabies in humans can often be traced back to the lack of vaccination.
Vaccination is the most effective weapon we have in the fight against rabies. Implementing inoculation programs for animals, especially dogs and cats, has proven to significantly reduce the number of rabies cases in both animals and humans. By vaccinating pets, we not only protect their health but also create a barrier for human health by reducing the risk of virus transmission.
At Biogénesis Bagó, we believe that vaccinating our pets is essential for promoting responsible pet ownership. That’s why we collaborate closely with veterinary professionals, providing them with training on best vaccination practices and effective animal health strategies, using high-quality biotechnology solutions focused on the prevention of diseases. Their support is key in communicating to pet owners the importance of complying with annual rabies vaccination.
Eliminating rabies poses a significant public health challenge, especially in many countries where it remains a prevalent zoonosis among street dog populations. However, there is good news: when we implement appropriate health strategies and use quality vaccines in conjunction with the cooperation of official organizations and the animal health industry, rabies is a disease that can be controlled
The World Health Organization (WHO) has set an ambitious goal: to achieve “zero human deaths from dog-transmitted rabies by 2030.” This is a formidable challenge given the statistics, but we maintain an optimistic and proactive outlook. Achieving this goal requires collective efforts from all sectors.
At Biogénesis Bagó, we have committed ourselves to go beyond simply producing and supplying vaccines. We strive to raise public awareness and highlight the importance of this preventable but deadly disease. Our campaigns in partnership with the Fundación Mundo Sano — a leading global organization in tackling neglected diseases — reflect this commitment. Additionally, we work closely with the Global Alliance for Rabies Control, an FAO-OIE-WHO initiative, by supporting the “End Rabies Now” campaign and other targeted actions.
In Vietnam, the rabies situation remains concerning, with the dog population estimated at 7 million and vaccination rates alarmingly low at only 40% (with just over 70% in big cities). In 2024 alone, 56 people have died from rabies between January to July - a 45% increase compared to the previous year. Rabies continues to impact 30 provinces, with approximately 500,000 people bitten by animals each year. Strengthening vaccination rates and awareness is crucial to reducing these tragic numbers.
Collaboration between government bodies, local communities, and private organizations is essential in the fight against rabies. By uniting the Ministry of Agriculture’s leadership with innovative and effective vaccines and solutions , we can enhance vaccination coverage and public awareness. Together, we can reduce rabies cases, improve health outcomes, and work toward the global goal of zero human deaths from dog-mediated rabies by 2030. With 99% of rabies cases due to dog bites, 100% of these cases are preventable through responsible pet vaccination, ultimately saving lives.
Carol Galli, corporative director of Pets