Rabies remains a serious threat in Vietnam, warns expert
VOV.VN - Rabies is considered one of the most dangerous infectious diseases, with almost no chance of survival once symptoms appear.
According to the World Health Organisation (WHO), about 59,000–70,000 people die from rabies each year worldwide, 99% of cases are linked to infected dogs, and nearly 40% of victims are children under 15, the most vulnerable group.
In Vietnam, an average of 75 deaths from rabies are recorded annually. From January to July 2025 alone, 48 fatalities were reported across 19 provinces and cities. In Dong Nai province alone, 38 rabies outbreaks among dogs and cats were reported between January and August 2025, with five deaths, a rise of three compared to the same period in 2024.
The main cause is insufficient vaccination of pets. Many families allow dogs and cats to roam freely without muzzles, increasing the risk of exposure to the community. Notably, 75% of infected animals show the “silent” form of rabies, exhibiting no aggressive or erratic behaviour, making detection difficult.
Dong Nai currently has about 420,000 dogs and cats. However, in Long Thanh commune, vaccination coverage for pets reached only 39%, well below the recommended 70% needed to achieve herd immunity.
Dr. Luu Van Dung, deputy director of the Dong Nai Department of Health, said rabies is 100% preventable if vaccinated promptly.
“When bitten or scratched by a dog or cat, people should immediately wash the wound with soap under running water for at least 15 minutes, then go to a healthcare facility for vaccination,” he said.
Vietnam has set a goal to eliminate human rabies by 2030 under its National Target Programme. To achieve this, the country must maintain at least 70% vaccination coverage for pets and raise public awareness about responsible pet management and care. This requires close coordination among the health and veterinary sectors, local authorities, and strong community engagement.
Gia Lai man dies of rabies after being bitten by family dog
VOV.VN - A 51-year-old man residing in the Central Highlands province of Gia Lai has died of rabies after being bitten by his family’s dog a month ago, the Gia Lai Center for Disease Control (CDC) confirmed on August 8.
