In a collaborative effort to combat rabies, the Ministry of Health and the Ministry of Agriculture and Environment in Lao PDR, along with development partners and local communities, commemorated World Rabies Day 2026. Their renewed commitment aims to eliminate dog-mediated human rabies deaths by 2030 through enhanced cooperation, preventive measures, and community engagement.
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Rabies is a persistent public health and animal health issue in Lao PDR, exacerbated by insufficient dog vaccination coverage, limited awareness in some areas, and coordination challenges. As a preventable yet deadly disease, rabies can be eradicated by implementing dog vaccination, providing timely post-exposure treatment, and enhancing community knowledge.
The World Rabies Day event featured representatives from various sectors, including health officials, veterinarians, and local authorities, focusing on public awareness and offering free pet vaccinations to encourage protective actions for both people and animals. Dr. Phayvanh Keopaseuth, Vice Minister of Health, emphasized that “No one should die from rabies,” highlighting the need for improved prevention, treatment, and public awareness to reach zero human deaths linked to dog-mediated rabies.
Dr. Souphavanh Keovilay, Deputy Director General of the Department of Livestock and Fisheries, stated that vaccinating dogs is the most effective way to halt rabies transmission at its source. They are collaborating across sectors to enhance health outcomes for both animals and people.
Global evidence suggests that vaccinating at least 70% of dogs in at-risk communities can effectively stop the disease's spread and protect lives. Ongoing investment in dog vaccination programs, responsible pet ownership, and community education is essential to meet the 2030 objective.
Dr. Satoko Otsu, representing the WHO in Lao PDR, reminded attendees that everyone plays a role in preventing rabies, ensuring that people exposed to potential rabid animals receive proper information and care.
The Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO), World Health Organization (WHO), and WOAH, alongside other partners, are providing technical assistance, raising awareness, enhancing surveillance, and promoting multisectoral coordination. The FAO is aiding the Lao government in revising its National Strategic Plan on Rabies Prevention and Control for 2026–2030, while also bolstering veterinary services, disease surveillance, laboratory capabilities, and One Health initiatives.
Ms. Kyung-Mee Kim, FAO Representative to Lao PDR, noted that eliminating rabies requires preventing transmission among animals while ensuring that people have access to necessary information and care. The FAO is committed to aiding the Lao government in strengthening dog vaccination and overall preventive measures against rabies.