Monrovia, Liberia – The Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) Representative (AI) in Liberia, Bintia Stephen Tchicaya, has called for a collaborative health strategies and approach to control rabies in Liberia. In a poignant gathering over the weekend, Liberia observed the 18th Annual World Rabies Day, madamTchicaya emphasized the urgent need to address rabies as a significant public health threat.
The event featured personal anecdotes, insights from health officials, and a call to action for communities to unite in combating the disease.
The FAO Boss, highlighted the emotional impact of rabies on families. “I visited a community health worker where a young boy was distressed after his dog, his best friend, showed symptoms of rabies following a scuffle.”
The scene underscored the widespread fear and uncertainty surrounding rabies, illustrating the critical need for education and resources in vulnerable communities. “Today, September 28th, serves as a powerful reminder for us to unite in the battle against rabies,” she declared. This stressed that rabies knows no borders, affecting communities globally and locally. The message resonated with attendees, emphasizing that coordination and collaboration among nations are essential for controlling and eventually eradicating the disease.
The gathering aimed to raise public awareness, and urge stakeholders to commit to ongoing efforts in rabies prevention. “We must break various barriers hindering our progress,” she noted, pointing to the necessity of collaborative health strategies and innovative approaches in rabies control. Moreover, participants were encouraged to reflect on their roles in eradicating rabies in Liberia.
“Everyone can contribute, from government officials to students. Together, we can make Liberia a rabies-free nation,” madamTchicaya urged. This year’s observance aligns with a global goal of achieving zero human deaths from dog-mediated rabies by 2030.
Reported by: Simeon S Wiakanty
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