Yanbu, September 30, 2024 – In observance of World Rabies Day, marked globally on September 28, the Madinah branch of the National Center for the Prevention and Control of Plant Pests and Animal Diseases (Weqaa), in collaboration with Saudi Aramco, hosted a workshop aimed at raising awareness about rabies. The event sought to inform specialists, animal owners, and the wider public about the causes, types, and risks associated with the viral disease, which continues to pose a global public health threat.
The workshop provided in-depth discussions on the transmission of rabies, preventive strategies, and the global and local efforts aimed at eradicating the disease by 2030. Presentations underscored the vital role of vaccination, early detection, and community engagement in managing and preventing the spread of rabies. The workshop also highlighted the coordinated efforts of government agencies and international organizations in combating rabies, focusing on their initiatives to increase public knowledge and control measures in affected areas.
Weqaa has been actively working across Saudi Arabia to address rabies through a variety of initiatives. These include awareness campaigns aimed at educating the public, particularly animal owners and handlers, about the importance of regular vaccinations and other preventive measures. In addition, the center is enhancing national capabilities in the fields of animal vaccination and emergency response, aligning with Saudi Arabia’s broader health and safety goals.
Through collaborative efforts with local and international partners, Weqaa continues to spearhead programs that promote the importance of rabies prevention and the eventual eradication of the disease. The center’s initiatives are designed to ensure that Saudi Arabia is well-prepared to meet the global goal of eliminating rabies by 2030, as set by the World Health Organization and other international health bodies.