India’s race to eliminate dog-mediated rabies by 2030: experts stress the need for a ‘One Health’ approach

India has made significant strides in reducing human rabies deaths over the past two decades.

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However, achieving the goal of eliminating dog-mediated rabies by 2030 will require accelerated efforts and a focused, ‘One Health’ approach, experts say. The One Health strategy highlights integrating human and animal health measures to address rabies at its roots. Key steps identified include strengthening both human and animal surveillance systems, ensuring timely and complete administration of post-exposure prophylaxis (PEP) for those exposed to the virus, and scaling up dog vaccination efforts across the country. While rabies cases have declined, experts warn that without these integrated actions, India may struggle to meet the 2030 target.