Voluntary approach to canine rabies vaccinations

An estimated 59,000 people die from rabies annually, with 99% of those deaths attributable to bites from domestic dogs. Wide-scale vaccinations of domestic dogs are effective at eliminating rabies but require large amounts of resources and planning to implement. This study looks to evaluate how successful a grassroots campaign is as an alternative method for rabies control

In Kenya, the Laikipia Rabies Vaccination Campaign during 2015-2017, a total of 13,155 domestic dogs were vaccinated against rabies in 17 communities covering approximately 3,300 square miles. On average, the cost of vaccinating an animal was $3.44 US dollars, with in-kind contributions and $7.44 US dollars without in-kind contributions.

Success in the form of vaccinating more dogs, was easily achieved, however lack of post-vaccinations monitoring and education programs along with limited funding hindered achievements below the 70% coverage level goal.

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Voluntary approach to canine rabies vaccinations