The Critical Role of Rabies Prevention in Public Health Publisher



Shabansalmani N ; Fazeli M ; Afzadi HA ; Pourhossein B ; Bashar R
Source: International Journal of Environmental Health Engineering Published:2026

Abstract

Rabies is a fatal viral zoonotic disease that causes encephalitis. It is a significant public health concern in many regions, particularly in low-resource and rural settings. The disease causes massive financial losses, especially in the public health sector. This study examines the public health burden of rabies and evaluates the effectiveness of control strategies-such as vaccination programs, surveillance systems, and public education-implemented across different settings to prevent its spread. A literature search is conducted through Google Scholar and PubMed from “2017 to 2023” in English and except systematic reviews; Using keywords such as “rabies,” “control,” “rabies elimination,” and ”Public Health”. The total of relevant articles gathered is 44, including data about epidemiology, control strategies, and their implications on public health. These sources give an encompassing overview of the diagnosis methodology, the pathogenesis of the disease, and efficient ways of prevention. Despite progress, challenges remain due to limited resources and underdeveloped health systems. Public education improves knowledge and practices regarding rabies prevention and post-exposure prophylaxis (PEP), but significant disparities exist in rural and remote regions where healthcare services and access to rabies vaccines (RABVs) are uneven. Addressing these challenges is essential for the successful rabies control program. This review underscores the critical need for evidence-based strategies, including mass dog vaccination, dog population management, timely access to PEP, and public awareness to rabies control. Digital surveillance tools, intersectoral collaboration under the One Health approach, and targeted interventions based on epidemiological modeling can help to effective rabies control efforts to eliminate disease by 2030. © 2026 International Journal of Environmental Health Engineering.