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IFAH statement on Rabies vaccination

Brussels, 25 May 2012 – Statement on Rabies from Barbara Freischem, Executive director of the International Federation of Animal Health (IFAH):

“With the confirmation of at least one case of Rabies in the UK this week, we can clearly see the benefits of remaining vigilant of diseases that pass from animals to people. In the case of Rabies, vaccinating animals is the key way to protect both animals and people; vaccination has profoundly influenced and improved world health for both people and animals, and will continue to be a fundamental tool to meet future health challenges.

“Both the International Federation of Animal Health (IFAH), through the production of vaccines for animals, and the Global Alliance for Rabies Control (GARC) in cooperation with governmental organisations through their work to generate awareness on Rabies, strongly believe this disease should and can be eradicated.

“Although Rabies has been effectively eradicated in most parts of Europe, developing regions such as rural Asia and Africa still struggle with Rabies. Rabies is one of the most deadly infectious diseases around; it kills hundreds of people and animals every day in developing countries especially. However, due to vaccination, Rabies can be controlled.”

For further information on Rabies control, please click here.

Notes for editors

IFAH
The International Federation for Animal Health (IFAH) is an organisation representing manufacturers of veterinary medicines, vaccines and other animal health products in both developed and developing countries across five continents. The mission of IFAH is to foster a greater understanding of animal health matters and promote a predictable, science-based regulatory environment that facilitates the supply of innovative and quality animal medicines, vaccines and other animal health products into a competitive market place. These products contribute to a healthy and safe food supply as well as a high standard of health and welfare for animals and people.

For further information on IFAH, please visit www.ifahsec.org

For further press information please contact
Kim Hardie, Communications Director
Tel.: +32 2 543 75 75
E-mail: k.hardie@ifahsec.org