Pre and post exposure prophylaxis in humans and animals rabies: Vaccine-preventable disease

Rabies is a deadly but preventable zoonotic disease that remains a major public-health and veterinary concern. Effective prevention depends on timely post-exposure prophylaxis (PEP), appropriate pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) and sustained vaccination of animal reservoirs, particularly dogs. This article briefly includes the principles of rabies transmission, wound management, exposure assessment and current PEP and PrEP approaches in humans, along with vaccination and post-exposure management in dogs, cats and livestock. Strengthening vaccination coverage, improving access to rabies biologicals and developing vaccines with simplified schedules and longer-lasting immunity are important future priorities for reducing the global burden of rabies. A coordinated One Health approach integrating human health, veterinary services, wildlife management and community participation remains essential for achieving sustained progress towards rabies elimination.