Tunisia – Generalization of rabies vaccines in all emergency services and basic care centers

Dr. Kawther Harabech, the coordinator of the national rabies control program at the Ministry of Health, confirmed that the ministry has devised a national strategy to fight rabies since April 2024. This strategy involves the widespread distribution of preventive treatment across all available emergency services.

She added that the strategy prioritizes intervention in high-risk or infected areas, with a focus on vaccinating animals, particularly domestic dogs, while municipalities are responsible for managing stray animals.

Several regional meetings have been held, permitting all parties to intensify efforts and work towards lowering the epidemiological situation in Tunisia. Additionally, a toll-free number has been made available for citizens to submit complaints or inquiries.

During the first week, about 447 calls were received on the toll-free number from across the governorates. Most questions pertained to the vaccination of domestic dogs, cats, and animals used in tourism, such as horses and camels. The second most common inquiry concerned vaccination centres for humans, and there were likewise complaints about stray dogs and their increasing numbers in certain areas.

Dr. Harabech revealed that the Ministry of Agriculture has advanced the start date of the national vaccination campaign from early November to September, extending the campaign for three months until November 2024. She stressed that vaccinations are available nationwide at regional agricultural delegations.

She also stressed that even if a person is bitten by a vaccinated animal, they should still visit an anti-rabies treatment center, noting that vaccination is an annual requirement, with its effectiveness becoming evident one month after administration.

She reminded the public that if an animal dies, the Pasteur Institute should be contacted to conduct the required tests to determine the cause of death.

Vaccines have been distributed to emergency services and basic health centers in the regions to alleviate pressure on the Pasteur Institute. She urged individuals to visit these centers if they are bitten or scratched by an animal.