Mexico Makes Progress in Eliminating Canine Rabies

In the absence of reported human rabies cases transmitted from dogs in Mexico since 2019, the country is on the verge of being certified for the elimination of canine rabies by WHO. Ricardo Cortés, General Director, National Center for Preventive Programs and Disease Control (CENAPRECE), attributed this success to ongoing vaccination programs for pets and emphasized the need for a One Health approach that integrates human and animal health.

Mexico is on the verge of achieving certification for the elimination of canine rabies, particularly for the antigenic variant AV1, as reported by the Ministry of Health (SSA). During the forum “Breaking Barriers Against Rabies Elimination,” held in recognition of World Rabies Day, observed on Sept. 28, 2024, Cortés noted that since 2006, Mexico has not recorded any cases of human rabies from dogs. He emphasized ongoing efforts to combat this disease through periodic rabies vaccination programs for pets, particularly dogs and cats.

He also highlighted Mexico’s comprehensive approach to rabies, the One Health concept, which integrates environmental, animal, and human health considerations. He noted that the public health sector is responsible for vaccinating companion animals, showcasing the collaboration between health systems and veterinary services.

Despite Mexico's success in eliminating human rabies from dogs, there still exist potential risks from wildlife, including vampire bats, raccoons, and skunks, which can also carry the rabies virus. The current challenge involves maintaining effective vaccination programs for pets while enhancing public awareness about rabies transmission, as reported by SSA.

Rabies is a viral zoonosis affecting all mammals, transmitted through contact with infected saliva via bites or scratches, according to Eric Alexis Piña, National Consultant on Transmissible Diseases, PAHO/WHO in Mexico. Rabies is present in over 150 countries and results in approximately 60,000 human deaths annually, with 40% of victims being children, as explained by Piña. He also indicated that 95% of rabies cases occur in Asia and Africa. 

The WHO and PAHO aim to eliminate human rabies transmitted by dogs in the Americas by 2030, a goal Mexico is progressing toward.