What is the primary goal of the rabies prevention and control program in the Philippines?

The primary goal of the rabies prevention and control program in the Philippines is to eliminate rabies as a public health problem. This approach includes a comprehensive strategy that focuses not only on awareness and education but also on vaccination, surveillance, and responsible pet ownership to break the transmission cycle of the virus from animals to humans. By targeting the elimination of rabies, the program aims to significantly reduce the number of rabies cases and deaths that occur due to this preventable disease.

While increasing public awareness is an important aspect of the program (as it helps to engage communities and encourage safe practices), the overarching aim goes beyond awareness to achieving actual, measurable outcomes in public health. Similarly, providing treatment for infected individuals and vaccinating wild animals are parts of a broader strategy, but both serve the larger goal of eliminating rabies rather than addressing it as merely a reactive measure. The emphasis on kicking rabies out as a public health concern reflects a proactive and systemic approach to disease control and prevention.