Expert consultation on rabies post-exposure prophylaxis: Meeting Report

Rabies is widely distributed around the globe. According to WHO data, more than 55 000 people die of rabies each year, about 95 % of these deaths occur in Asia and Africa. Most human deaths are caused by bites from infected dogs. Between 30 % and 60 % of the victims of dog bites are children under the age of 15. The recommended treatment to prevent rabies after suspected exposure depends on the type of the exposure The objectives of this consultation were: • to review the epidemiological situation of rabies in Europe; • to identify the different approaches regarding the administration of PEP, e.g. with regard to the definition of the risk zone and the type of exposure; and • to identify solutions to the shortage, including the possibility of establishing a virtual stockpile of PEP, potentially available to all Member States in the European Union.