INTERNATIONAL DAY

World Rabies Day

World Rabies Day reminds us to act together against rabies and promote awareness.

SEP28

Tuesday, September 28Every year on September 28

days to go

Roots: Established in 2007 by the Global Alliance for Rabies Control
Vibe: Community-focused and educational
Also on Sep 28: Prop Trading Day · Good Neighbor Day · North Carolina Day
Hashtag: #WorldRabiesDay

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3 ways to celebrate

AT HOME

Check pet vaccines

Confirm your pets are current on rabies shots. Call the vet if unsure.

WITH FRIENDS

Spread the word

Remind pet-owner friends to vaccinate. Share info from a trusted vet source.

AT WORK OR SCHOOL

Post pet safety tips

Share bite-prevention basics on the school or office board. Knowledge prevents tragedy.

Plan ahead

World Rabies Day is observed on September 28 every year. Here is where it lands for the next ten years, handy for planners, marketers and party people.

2026Mon, Sep 28this year

2027Tue, Sep 28

2028Thu, Sep 28

2029Fri, Sep 28

2030Sat, Sep 28

2031Sun, Sep 28

2032Tue, Sep 28

2033Wed, Sep 28

2034Thu, Sep 28

2035Fri, Sep 28

2036Sun, Sep 28

Add to my calendar (repeats yearly)

Fast facts

Over 59,000Deaths annually worldwide

95%Of rabies cases in Africa and Asia

The story

Rabies remains a profound public health challenge, claiming over 59,000 lives annually, mostly in developing countries. The disease is caused by a virus that infects mammals, including humans, and is transmitted through the saliva of infected animals. This year, as we mark World Rabies Day on September 28, the focus is on increasing awareness and promoting preventive measures through vaccination and education.

Read the full story

Established in 2007 by the Global Alliance for Rabies Control and the CDC, World Rabies Day aims to highlight the significance of rabies prevention. The campaign encourages communities to take proactive steps in safeguarding both human and animal health. Through vaccination programs and educational outreach, communities are empowered to reduce the incidence of this preventable disease.

In the United States, rabies is most commonly found in wild animals such as bats, raccoons, and foxes. While the incidence of rabies in domestic animals has significantly decreased due to vaccination, vigilance remains crucial. Public health officials emphasize the importance of pet vaccinations, which not only protect animals but also reduce the risk of transmission to humans.

Each year's theme rallies communities, health workers, and governments to work together to end rabies deaths. Engaging local schools, veterinary clinics, and community organizations can foster a culture of awareness and preventive action. Together, we can combat rabies through education, vaccination, and community involvement, ensuring a safer environment for all.