Work

Distinguishing dog-bite and rabies vulnerability in children to strengthen global elimination efforts

Year: 2026

Type: article

Abstract: Dog-mediated rabies remains a preventable cause of mortality in children, particularly in low- and middle-income countries where free-roaming dogs are common. While the WHO-led "Zero by 30" strategy emphasises mass dog vaccination and access to post-exposure prophylaxis (PEP), less attention has been paid to the behavioural and communication pathways that shape children's vulnerability. This Viewpoint proposes a conceptual distinction between vulnerability to dog bites and vulnerability to rabies following exposure. Conflating these risks may contribute to diffuse messaging and missed prevention opportunities. This Viewpoint argues for a differentiated child-facing and adult-facing interventions, with schools positioned as adaptable platforms for integrating safe behaviour, disclosure, and timely care-seeking within existing systems. Aligning behavioural, educational, and biomedical components more explicitly may strengthen implementation of global rabies elimination strategies and reduce paediatric deaths.

Source: PLoS neglected tropical diseases

DOI: 10.1371/journal.pntd.0014680

Author: Harish Kumar Tiwari

Institutions: Indian Institute of Technology Guwahati, DBT/Wellcome Trust India Alliance

Language: English

Topic: Rabies epidemiology and control

Subfield: Virology

Field: Immunology and Microbiology

Domain: Life Sciences

SDG: Good health and well-being

Open Access status: gold

Estimated APC paid: $2,670