Rabies update: Ukraine reports one death in 2024

Rabies, a highly contagious disease, poses a fatal risk upon infection with the virus. Presently, cases of rabies and related fatalities are documented in 150 countries worldwide, Ukraine included, where incidents are observed not only among animals but also among humans. As of this year, one human rabies death has been recorded.

Ihor Kuzin, Deputy Health Minister and Chief State Sanitary Doctor made this statement during a briefing at Media Center Ukraine – Ukrinform.

“Regrettably, we’ve had deaths from rabies among individuals in Ukraine. We documented one fatality last year, and as per our statistics, we’ve had another one in 2024,” he stated.

He added that an average of 22,000 citizens receive anti-rabies treatment annually.

“Annually, Ukrainians seek medical attention, with a weighted average ranging from 56,000 to 58,000 per year. These represent the healthcare inquiries made by Ukrainians,” stated Ihor Kuzin.

“However, only 22,000 Ukrainians are prescribed anti-rabies treatment, indicating specific immunoprophylaxis and vaccination. This implies that, according to medical assessment, all other cases are deemed low-risk and do not necessitate appropriate vaccination.”

Read more: https://mediacenter.org.ua/news