Did you know that while rabies is 99.9% fatal, it is also 100% preventable? With the right knowledge and actions, we have the power to protect ourselves and our beloved pets from this deadly disease.
Rabies is a viral disease transmitted through the saliva of mammals, primarily through dog bites. Once symptoms appear, it is invariably fatal in both humans and animals. However, with prompt and appropriate medical care—such as post-exposure prophylaxis—rabies progression can be prevented.
The Global Impact:
● Approximately 45% of rabies deaths occur in Asia, with dog bites accounting for 96% of human cases worldwide.
● The virus spreads through bites, scratches, or saliva contacting mucous membranes or open wounds.
● In Sri Lanka last year, there were 320,000 reported dog bites, and tragically, 43 people lost their lives to rabies.
Prevention Through Vaccination:
Vaccinating at least 70% of free-roaming animals in an area establishes herd immunity. This ensures a majority of the population is immune, indirectly protecting those who are not. Your involvement is crucial to creating a safer community for all.
In January 2025, The Dziko Project proudly joined the global movement to End Rabies Now by becoming a certified Rabies Centre of Excellence. This milestone underscores our unwavering commitment to eradicating rabies and safeguarding the health of both people and animals in our communities.
As a Rabies Centre of Excellence, we are committed to:
●Delivering high-quality care, education, and advocacy for rabies prevention and control.
● Expanding our impact through partnerships with local veterinarians, international organisations, and grassroots initiatives.
●Educating and empowering individuals on rabies prevention and responsible pet ownership.
● Over 1,000 animals humanely spayed/neutered to date.
● Over 3000 animals were vaccinated against Rabies.
● Extensive rabies vaccination campaigns across southern Sri Lanka.
●Community outreach programs to raise awareness about rabies prevention.
Education and collaboration are essential for a rabies-free world. Visit the Global Alliance for Rabies Control at https://rabiesalliance.org for free educational resources about the rabies crisis.
We pledge to support an end to human deaths from rabies by 2030, for the good of people and animals.
By working together, we can make rabies history. Remember: rabies is 99.9% fatal, but 100% preventable. Let’s ensure no one suffers from this deadly disease again.
For more information, visit https://endrabiesnow.org.