Evaluating the 2024 dog oral rabies vaccination campaign in the Zambezi region, Namibia using GIS and household surveys

Abstract

Abstract The 2024 oral rabies vaccination (ORV) campaign in Namibia’s Zambezi region aimed to address persistent rabies transmission through a large-scale effort combining direct dog vaccination and owner-assisted distribution. A total of 9,393 baits were distributed, and the campaign demonstrated feasibility and operational efficiency, achieving an estimated vaccination coverage of 47.9% of dogs in just four days, increasing to 56.8% when accounting for prior parenteral vaccination efforts. Spatial analysis revealed an average vaccination coverage of 60% across 10 × 10 km grid cells, and encompassed 81% of the human population of the Zambezi region within the vaccination coverage area. Post-vaccination surveys indicated a rise in vaccination rates (54.5% of dogs vaccinated, up from 18.9%) and lower presence of rabies. Improved education and awareness campaigns, targeted interventions in low-coverage areas, and enhanced surveillance are recommended to further reduce rabies incidence. The findings highlight the promise and proficiency of ORV campaigns in resource-constrained settings and demonstrate that its application can be key for sustained rabies control efforts in Namibia.