World Rabies Day

Every year on September 28, World Rabies Day raises global awareness about rabies prevention and honors the legacy of lifesaving vaccination work that began in the late 19th century with Louis Pasteur’s research. ¹

History of World Rabies Day

World Rabies Day was established in 2007 by the Global Alliance for Rabies Control (GARC) with support from international health bodies, creating a single, coordinated day for education and action in every region. Since then, governments, clinics, schools, and NGOs have used the date to run vaccination drives, trainings, and public campaigns that demystify the disease and how to stop it.

The date—September 28—was chosen to mark the anniversary of Louis Pasteur’s death, recognizing the scientist whose team developed the first effective rabies vaccine. Major health organizations such as WHO, WOAH, PAHO, and CDC endorse the observance and highlight its focus on prevention, from vaccinating dogs to ensuring access to post-exposure care.

Why is World Rabies Day important?

Rabies is almost 100% fatal once symptoms appear, yet it remains nearly entirely preventable—a stark contrast that makes public awareness and timely action critical. The day draws attention to proven steps that save lives: vaccinating dogs, seeking prompt post-exposure prophylaxis after bites, and strengthening surveillance and diagnostics where risk is highest.

It also keeps the human toll visible. Each year, tens of thousands of people—disproportionately children in endemic regions—die from rabies, even though community campaigns and basic veterinary services can drive cases down. Marking the date invites practical solidarity: from neighborhood clinics to national programs aligned with the global elimination goal.

• It turns expert guidance into everyday decisions that prevent tragedy.
• It keeps a neglected disease on the public agenda where help is needed most.
• It connects human and animal health in a way families can act on.
• It celebrates local champions running clinics and education sessions.
• It reminds us that elimination is achievable with steady, shared effort.

How to observe World Rabies Day

Keep it simple and useful. If you live with dogs, confirm their rabies vaccinations are up to date; if you work with kids, review what to do after an animal bite and where post-exposure shots are available nearby. Sharing one accurate, sourced fact on social media or in a school newsletter can ripple farther than you think.

Make it community-minded. Ask a local clinic or veterinary group about campaigns you can support, register or attend an event through GARC’s listings, or help neighbors learn the basics of wound washing and when to seek care. Small, coordinated actions—especially dog vaccination—are the backbone of rabies elimination. ²

• Check your pets’ vaccination records and set reminders.
• Learn bite first aid and where to get post-exposure shots.
• Share one reliable resource from WHO, PAHO, or CDC.
• Add September 28 to your calendar so awareness becomes a habit.
• Volunteer or donate to a local vaccination drive.

World Rabies Day Dates Table

1. https://www.who.int/campaigns/world-rabies-day[↩]
2. https://rabiesalliance.org/world-rabies-day[↩]