After smallpox, rabies was the second human disease to benefit from a vaccine. This was as early as 1885, when Louis Pasteur administered the first experimental vaccine to Joseph Meister. Today, 140 years later, smallpox has been eradicated for several decades, while rabies still causes 60,000 deaths a year. Why such a difference? Is it simply due to the difficulty of vaccinating against zoonoses? What are the main strategies for eliminating rabies by 2030?

Find out in this training course why rabies is still considered a neglected zoonosis in Africa and Asia, and how to achieve the goal of zero human deaths from dog-mediated rabies by 2030, thanks to international experts in animal and human public health who will share their experience and knowledge with you.

Here are 5 reasons to sign up for this training course offered by the Institut Pasteur:

Reason #1: Gain a better understanding of the transmission, symptoms and clinical management of rabies

In this course, you will learn about the modes of transmission of rabies, its clinical presentation in humans and the management of this disease. You will also gain an insight into the therapeutic avenues currently being explored for this disease, which in 2024 is still considered to be almost always fatal in humans once the first clinical signs appear.

Reason #2: To understand the importance of the different animal reservoirs in the spread of the virus

More than 98% of human rabies deaths worldwide are the result of a bite from a rabid dog, but there are other animal reservoirs. Find out about the different reservoirs of this zoonosis on different continents and their respective roles in the spread of the virus.

Reason #3: Discover vaccination strategies in humans and animals to combat the rabies virus

140 years after Louis Pasteur first immunised humans against rabies, a great deal of progress has been made in the field of rabies vaccination! Discover the secrets behind the manufacture of rabies vaccines and immunoglobulins, and the latest developments in human and animal vaccination strategies.

Reason #4: Identify the role of international organisations in the elimination of rabies

A multidisciplinary approach and a cross-sectoral ‘One Health’ cooperation are essential for effective rabies control and elimination. Find out how international organisations (WHO, WOAH, FAO) are supporting the goal of zero human deaths from dog-mediated rabies by 2030 by catalysing the efforts of governments, vaccine producers, researchers, NGOs and development partners.

Reason # 5: Get an overview of rabies control strategies in different regions of the world

Experts from different continents will share their experiences in the field and analyse the obstacles and opportunities in the context of their countries. You'll discover some inspiring experiences and success stories!

To find out more and register, click here.
Pasteur Network
Course starts: 1st October 2024
Enrolment deadline: 30 September 2025