Denyse Niyonteze, a 31-year-old woman from Kibungo Sector in Ngoma District, recently experienced a life-changing dog bite that left her fearing rabies. However, thanks to swift medical intervention, she is now recovering and optimistic about a full recovery. Her experience sheds light on the importance of timely treatment and highlights Rwanda’s commitment to eliminating rabies by 2030.
On December 7, 2024, Denyse was bitten by a dog she was playing with at her home. “I immediately rushed to Kibungo Hospital, and they received me right away,” Denyse recalled. “I felt a very big pain for about thirty minutes, but when I reached the hospital, they immediately gave me the first dose of rabies vaccine through a syringe.”
Denyse was prescribed five doses of the rabies vaccine, to be administered between December 7, 2024 and January 4, 2025. “I am thankful for the healthcare provided to me because now I’m feeling good, and the doctor assured me that I will get well after completing all the doses, with no negative effects expected,” she said with relief.
Her advice to others “I encourage everyone to go to the hospital immediately after being bitten by a dog,” Denyse emphasized, urging others not to delay seeking medical help.
Rabies Treatment and Prevention Efforts
At health centers, initial wound care is administered before patients are transferred to hospitals for further treatment. Rabies vaccinations are given in a series of five doses to prevent the disease.
Data from the Epidemic Surveillance and Response Division of the Rwanda Biomedical Center (RBC) indicates that, in 2016, an average of 54 dog bites were reported each month. Rabies, a deadly viral disease transmitted by infected animals, can be fatal if not treated on time.
Rwanda’s Goal to Eradicate Rabies by 2030
Rwanda is making significant strides toward eliminating rabies by 2030. According to Ladislas Nshimiyimana, Director of the NTDs Unit at RBC, “Vaccines for rabies are available at the hospital level, and Rwanda has set an ambitious goal to eradicate rabies by 2030—meaning no more cases or deaths from rabies.”
Achieving this target will involve mass vaccination of dogs, as well as increasing awareness about the importance of seeking immediate medical care after being bitten. This public health initiative is crucial for both preventing the spread of rabies and ensuring the safety of the population.
The Global Impact of Rabies
Rabies remains a significant global health threat. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), rabies is an infectious viral disease that, once clinical symptoms appear, is almost always fatal. Though rabies occurs worldwide, more than 95% of human deaths from rabies happen in Asia and Africa. Dogs are responsible for 99% of all rabies transmissions to humans.
Globally, over 55,000 people die from rabies each year, with children under 15 accounting for 40% of those who are bitten by animals suspected of being rabid. Each year, more than 15 million people worldwide receive post-bite vaccinations to prevent the disease.
A Message of Hope and Action
Denyse’s recovery story underscores the importance of early intervention in preventing rabies and the effectiveness of the rabies vaccine. As Rwanda works towards its goal of eradicating rabies by 2030, Denyse’s experience serves as a reminder to seek immediate medical care after a dog bite.
“I’m so grateful for the care I’ve received,” Denyse said, feeling optimistic about her future. “I encourage everyone to seek medical attention right away. It really can make all the difference.”
