World Rabies Day is observed on 28 September to spread awareness about the impact of viral disease Rabies and how to prevent it. 28 also marks the death anniversary of Louis Pasteur, the French chemist, and microbiologist, who developed the first Rabbies vaccine.
World Rabies Day was observed for the first time on September 28, 2007.
What is Rabies?
Rabies is a deadly virus that attacks the central nervous system. If the person does not get proper medical care in time, the virus will cause disease in brain causing death.
Rabies Virus is transmitted from animals to humans, most commonly by animal bites. Rabies affects only mammals, including humans.
India has around 20,000 rabies deaths a year. Worldwide, over 59,000 people die every year from rabies, around 40% of them aged under 15. (Source)
Louis Pasteur
World Rabies Day Themes
2021- Rabies: Facts, not fear
2020- Vaccination and collaboration
2019- Rabies: Vaccinate to eliminate
2018- Rabies: Share the message, save a life
2017- Rabies: Zero by 30
2016- Rabies- Educate, Vaccinate, Eliminate
2015- End Rabies Together.
For further reading
What is Rabies? - Centres for Disease Control and Prevention