These “showcase” initiatives have demonstrated that it is possible to eliminate rabies from terrestrial populations. Information on these initiatives can be obtained from the web sites of the Rabies Blueprint (http://www.rabiesblueprint.com/) and World Rabies Day (Briggs and Hanlon, 2007) (www.worldrabiesday.com). A number

of factors will increase the potential for successful rabies elimination Gefitinib research buy programmes. First, rabies must be made a notifiable disease in all countries. Where the necessary infrastructure does not exist, governments must generate facilities for reporting and surveillance. Veterinary and medical sectors should coordinate their resources to respond to suspect cases. Importantly, the successful establishment of functional reporting systems requires mechanisms for practical laboratory-based surveillance. The enhancement

of sensible pet care, including vaccination, registration, routine supervision and population planning, is one of the most cost-effective elements (Rupprecht et al., 2006a). Systems must be implemented to accurately monitor the burden of rabies in local areas; those data can then be used to influence policy, ensuring that resources are allocated Luminespib datasheet in the most efficient and cost-effective manner. Monitoring relies principally on reliable, sustained surveillance and reporting; appropriate diagnostic capabilities for animal and human cases; and an accurate epidemiological assessment of the prevalence of rabies in dogs and humans. This information Rebamipide can drive risk-assessment systems in local areas, ensure compliance and influence policy. The confirmatory diagnosis of all suspect cases is essential for these desired outcomes (Fig. 3). Efficient reporting and surveillance systems

are essential for targeted rabies vaccination and elimination strategies. However, limiting factors including the lack of coordinated initiatives, dog ecology data and financial support for vaccination campaigns all hamper elimination prospects. However, all of these obstacles can be overcome through international coordination under the ‘One Health’ initiative (Fooks, 2007), and especially by working collectively within public-private partnerships (Taylor, 2013). Importantly, the vast majority of domestic dogs are accessible for vaccination, and educating their owners in the dangers of rabies will further reduce the burden. However, enhanced local facilities for surveillance and diagnostics are still essential for control and elimination initiatives. The implementation of government led cross-discipline efforts in the establishment of dog vaccination campaigns are critical in linking the veterinary and medical sectors as part of the ‘One Health’ initiative to effectively fight rabies. The authors acknowledge Dr M. Bray (NIH, USA), Dr Debbie Briggs (GARC, USA), Dr C.E. Rupprecht (GARC, USA) and Mr.