Project Title: Spatiotemporal epidemiological dynamics of rabies and the impacts of rabies control efforts in Tanzania
Project Description: Rabies, causing around 59,000 human deaths annually, predominantly affects Africa and Asia, with over 98% of cases stemming from dog bites. Despite being preventable through timely post-exposure prophylaxis (PEP), accessibility issues, especially in impoverished rural communities, lead to a significant percentage of bite victims not seeking care or initiating PEP. In Tanzania, PEP stock-outs contribute to this problem. Mass dog vaccination (MDV) stands out as an effective means of preventing rabies spread, aligning with the... Rabies, causing around 59,000 human deaths annually, predominantly affects Africa and Asia, with over 98% of cases stemming from dog bites. Despite being preventable through timely post-exposure prophylaxis (PEP), accessibility issues, especially in impoverished rural communities, lead to a significant percentage of bite victims not seeking care or initiating PEP. In Tanzania, PEP stock-outs contribute to this problem. Mass dog vaccination (MDV) stands out as an effective means of preventing rabies spread, aligning with the global strategy 'Zero by 30' aiming to eliminate human deaths from rabies by 2030. However, delivering MDV effectively, especially in hard-to-reach areas, poses challenges. Achieving 70% coverage in susceptible dog populations is crucial, but logistical, financial constraints, and inadequate engagement with dog owners hinder progress. Gaps in coverage compromise control efforts, emphasizing the need for targeted interventions in problematic areas with a deep understanding of rabies transmission dynamics. The lack of awareness about these dynamics and specific control strategies results in suboptimal interventions and resource wastage. In resource-scarce regions like Africa and Asia, efficient rabies control through dog vaccinations must prioritize problematic areas for maximum impact on reducing rabies incidence and maintaining freedom from rabies. In this study we will use modeling data to design most effective dog vaccination campaign to control rabies.
Principal Investigator : Maganga Sambo
Department Name :
Time frame: (2023-12-01) - (2025-06-01)
The Chancellor, Master and Scholars of the University of Cambridge (Normal)
External Collaborating Partners
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