World Rabies Day is held every year on September 28, this date was chosen as it is the anniversary of the death of Louis Pasteur – the first person to successfully create a vaccine against rabies.

World Rabies Day is coordinated by Global Alliance for Rabies Control (GARC) and it has been commemorated every year on September 28 since 2007. World Rabies Day aims to raise awareness and advocate for rabies elimination globally. It is an event designed to be inclusive, uniting people, organizations, and stakeholders across all sectors against rabies – because together we can eliminate rabies!

World Rabies Day 2026 theme, “Stronger Together,” highlights a simple truth: rabies elimination is only possible when we work together. From local communities and veterinary professionals to governments, healthcare workers, educators, and global partners, we all have role to play in making a world free from rabies a reality. Although many communities have eliminated rabies, too many challenges remain: Gaps in communication, fragmented systems, and duplicated efforts can slow progress. The 2026 theme calls on all stakeholders to strengthen partnerships and align efforts across human and animal health systems. When we work together, we can:

• Expand access to life-saving dog vaccinations.
• Improve rabies surveillance and reporting systems.
• Strengthen public awareness and education.
• Support policies that protect both people and animals.
• Build sustainable community-led solutions.

Rabies elimination depends on connected systems. Stronger partnerships create stronger outcomes.

Links:
World Rabies Day