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Page No. : 30-38

ABSTRACT

Rabies is an almost invariably fatal zoonotic disease that remains a major global health challenge, particularly in developing nations like India. Although entirely preventable, the disease is responsible for estimated 5726 human deaths each year in India, with domestic dogs acting as the primary reservoir and vector. The rabies virus (RABV), a negative-sense RNA virus belonging to the genus Lyssavirus, exhibits strong neurotropism, spreading from the site of entry to the central nervous system and causing progressive neurological illness. Clinical forms range from furious to paralytic rabies, both of which are uniformly lethal once symptoms are manifested. Recent advances in molecular tools such as RT-PCR and genome sequencing have enhanced diagnostic speed and facilitated genetic characterization of viral strains, providing valuable insights into their diversity and transmission. Nevertheless, insufficient public awareness, improper wound care, and inadequate vaccination of dogs continue to sustain the disease burden. While timely administration of post-exposure prophylaxis (PEP) is highly effective in preventing rabies, sustainable control depends on large-scale dog vaccination and monitoring of wildlife reservoirs. A robust One Health approach combining animal vaccination, community education, advanced diagnostics and policy-level interventions is critical to achieve the goal of eliminating dog-mediated human rabies in India by 2030.

Keywords: Diagnosis, Epidemiology, Lyssavirus, One Health, Pathogenesis, Rabies and Vaccination