World Rabies Day History

World Rabies Day is dedicated to raising global awareness about the impact of rabies on both humans and animals. Its primary purpose is to provide information and guidance on preventing this disease, particularly in at-risk communities. The observance also supports advocacy efforts to increase rabies control measures worldwide. Rabies remains a significant concern, and World Rabies Day serves as a vital platform for education and action to combat this neglected disease.

The observance was established in 2007 as a partnership between the Alliance for Rabies Control and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, with support from the World Health Organization and other international bodies. September 28 was chosen to commemorate the death of Louis Pasteur, the scientist who developed the first rabies vaccine. While rabies is present globally, with the exception of Antarctica, the vast majority of human deaths occur in developing regions of Africa and Asia, often transmitted by dogs. For New Zealand, a country that has maintained its rabies-free status, the focus is on maintaining vigilance and supporting global efforts to eliminate the disease.

World Rabies Day is observed through various initiatives aimed at educating the public and encouraging preventive actions. These can include community events, the distribution of informational materials, and campaigns that highlight the importance of animal vaccination and responsible pet ownership. In New Zealand, as elsewhere, the observance serves as a reminder of the importance of rabies prevention and contributes to the global goal of eliminating human deaths from rabies by 2030. The observance occurs annually on September 28.

Top 10 Facts for 2026 World Rabies Day in NZ

• The 2026 observance of World Rabies Day adopts the theme “Stronger Together,” emphasizing that the elimination of this disease relies on collaborative efforts between governments, healthcare workers, veterinarians, and local communities.
• This year’s theme serves as a call to action for stakeholders to strengthen human and animal health systems, advocating for a coordinated “One Health” approach to prevent rabies-related deaths.
• New Zealand maintains a rabies-free status, meaning the disease does not exist in its domestic or wild animal populations.
• Despite being a rabies-free nation, the observance remains relevant for New Zealanders who travel internationally to countries where the virus is endemic.
• Public health guidance in New Zealand highlights that for citizens traveling to regions where rabies is common, the virus is primarily transmitted through the saliva of infected mammals via bites or scratches.
• World Rabies Day is held annually on September 28 to commemorate the death anniversary of Louis Pasteur, the scientist who developed the first efficacious rabies vaccine.
• While New Zealand does not experience local transmission, healthcare professionals in the country provide essential information on rabies post-exposure prophylaxis (PEP) for travelers returning from high-risk areas.
• Rabies is recognized globally as a neglected zoonotic disease that is nearly 100% fatal once clinical symptoms appear, yet it remains entirely preventable through timely vaccination and proper medical care.
• The global movement behind this day supports the international “Zero by 30” goal, which aims to end human deaths from dog-mediated rabies by the year 2030.
• International organizations like the World Health Organization (WHO) and the World Organisation for Animal Health (WOAH) utilize this day to advocate for mass dog vaccination programs, which are the most effective strategy for stopping the disease at its source.

In the News and Trending in NZ for World Rabies Day

Top things to do in NZ for World Rabies Day

• Make sure pet's vaccines are up to date.
• Start by researching about rabies in New Zealand. Look for reputable sources such as government websites, research papers, and educational institutions. Gain a comprehensive understanding of the disease, its symptoms, transmission, prevention, and treatment.
• Reach out to local veterinarians, public health officials, or organizations involved in animal welfare and disease control. Seek opportunities to connect with them through email, social media, or virtual meetings. They may be able to provide you with valuable insights or references to further educational resources.