How does a rabies vaccine work?

• The death of a 12-year-old girl in Kerala from rabies, despite having multiple inoculations of the vaccine, has raised questions on the efficacy of rabies vaccines in India and their availability.

Rabies

• Caused by: Family of viruses known as lyssavirus it targets the central nervous system of the host and is about 100% fatal if the infection spreads.
• The rabies virus’ spread is slow and can take several weeks before becoming fatal encephalitis.
• Therefore, administering a vaccine, even after being bitten by a rabid animal, is adequately effective.
• A shot of rabies immunoglobulin and the consequent four-week course of anti-rabies vaccine guarantees prevention.
• There is no single-shot rabies vaccine that can offer permanent immunity against the disease.

Status of Rabies vaccine in India:

• Currently there are six types of rabies vaccines approved in India, as reported by the Health Ministry.
• They are made of inactivated viruses and are safe and efficacious.
• The Rabies vaccines are provided free of cost in government-run dispensaries.
• It is often reported that hospitals lack vaccines and shortage had been reported in multiple states like Karnataka, Punjab, Haryana, and West Bengal.
• Awareness about vaccines and treatment is not at the desired level in India.

The future course of action:

• India has set the target of elimination by 2030.
• It requires the extensive vaccination of dogs as they are responsible for approximately 99% of all rabies infections.
• In its ‘National Action for Plan — Rabies Elimination’ government aims to vaccinate at least 70% of all dogs in specific geographical areas annually.