Article "Rabies Situation in Ukraine and Current Challenges" in the Czech veterinary journal "Zverokruh" by authors Andrii Klietsov (DVM) and Natalia Klietsova (PhD), translated by MVDr. Hana Horáková
is based on a detailed analysis of epidemiological data and reveals a worrying trend. In 2024, Ukraine recorded a 159% increase in rabies cases compared to 2022 due to the war with Russia. This outbreak is due to the destruction of veterinary infrastructure, the cessation of vaccination programs and the mass movement of animals, which creates ideal conditions for the spread of zoonoses.
Example: in January-February 2025, 230 cases of rabies have already been detected, mainly among foxes, dogs and cats, which confirms the worsening situation.
The publication warns that this threatens not only Ukraine, but also EU countries due to the risk of cross-border spread, especially among wildlife and unvaccinated animals.
Thank you to Hana Horáková for sharing this critical data through the most influential veterinary publication in the Czech Republic!
We would like to note that Hero of Veterinary Medicine Oleksiy Oliynyk from Kharkiv, who fought in the Kraken unit and died for the freedom of Ukraine, is depicted in the photos presented.
Ukraine’s experience in combating rabies in wartime offers valuable lessons for the global veterinary community, demonstrating resilience and innovation in critical circumstances. Through such publications, we try to convey to the international community the importance of supporting Ukraine in the fight against rabies 🇺🇦
