DAPH calls for coordinated plan to eliminate rabies by 2030

Colombo, July 22 (Daily Mirror) - The Department of Animal Production and Health (DAPH) has called for a planned and humane approach to eliminate rabies in Sri Lanka by 2030, highlighting the need for cooperation among government institutions, veterinarians, local authorities and animal welfare organisations.

A senior official of the Department said that achieving the target would require a coordinated national effort involving all relevant stakeholders.

The Government is currently considering assigning responsibility for rabies control activities to the DAPH, while steps are being taken to develop a comprehensive national programme.

A training workshop was held in Negombo from July 12 to 16 with the participation of government veterinarians, representatives of veterinary associations, local government officials and animal welfare groups to prepare a national action plan for rabies elimination.

The workshop was organised by the DAPH with training support from the International Companion Animal Management (ICAM), while Battersea and Mars provided financial assistance.

Following the workshop, a basic national programme was developed to guide Sri Lanka’s efforts towards achieving rabies elimination by 2030.

The Department highlighted that a humane and coordinated approach by all stakeholders is essential to successfully eradicate rabies from the country.