How has the war in Ukraine affected rabies?

The war has disrupted rabies prevention efforts, such as vaccinating wild and stray animals, and led to an increase in stray animals and wild animal contact with humans.

What is the status of rabies cases in Ukraine since the war began?

There has been a significant rise in rabies cases among animals and a corresponding increase in people bitten by rabid animals since the war started.

Why are rabies prevention measures difficult in Ukraine during wartime?

Prevention measures are limited, especially near frontlines, and aerial distribution of vaccines is prohibited. Martial law also restricts animal culling.

Home / Health / Ukraine Rabies Surge: War Fuels Animal Disease Threat

Ukraine Rabies Surge: War Fuels Animal Disease Threat

11 Feb

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Summary

Rabies is spreading in Ukraine due to the ongoing conflict.
Wild animals are moving into human areas, spreading the disease.
Animal rabies cases and human bites have significantly increased since 2021.

Ukraine Rabies Surge: War Fuels Animal Disease Threat

The conflict in Ukraine has introduced a new danger: a surge in rabies cases. The war, which has resulted in significant casualties, has disrupted essential prevention efforts, including the vaccination of wild and stray animals. This disruption, coupled with the movement of wild animals like foxes and wolves into human habitations, has exacerbated the spread of the zoonotic disease.

Authorities report a substantial increase in both animal rabies cases and instances of people being bitten by infected animals since the full-scale invasion began. In 2021, there were hundreds of animal rabies cases, but this number rose significantly by 2024. Similarly, the number of people bitten by rabid animals also saw a sharp increase during the same period.

Compounding the issue, martial law restricts animal culling, and preventive measures, especially near frontlines, are limited. While efforts are underway to vaccinate wild animals and raise public awareness, gaps in coverage and access persist, particularly in active combat zones. The situation highlights the broader link between warfare and the proliferation of infectious diseases.