PNG ramps up rabies prevention as global awareness day observed

Papua New Guinea is taking proactive steps to prevent rabies, emphasizing the country’s vulnerability due to its proximity to Indonesia and Timor-Leste, where the disease is present.

The National Agriculture Quarantine and Inspection Authority [NAQIA] led outreach in Vanimo Green District, visiting schools and health facilities to educate communities and introduce a Dog Bite Register for early detection and containment.

“Support from health workers, teachers, and residents is vital in keeping PNG rabies-free,” said NAQIA Team Leader Wilson Gehu. Local media, including NBC West Sepik, helped broadcast awareness messages across the province.

World Rabies Day, recognized by the World Organisation for Animal Health (WOAH) and supported by the Global Alliance for Rabies Control (GARC), encourages countries to prevent and ultimately eradicate the disease. PNG’s participation underscores its commitment to protecting public health.