Chile becomes first South American country to eliminate rabies
On September 14, 2026, the World Health Organization validated Chile as the first country in South America to eliminate dog-transmitted rabies. This achievement follows over 50 years without a human rabies case, reflecting sustained efforts in vaccination and surveillance.
Chile has reached a significant milestone by becoming the first country in South America to receive validation from the World Health Organization (WHO) for eliminating dog-transmitted rabies as a public health problem. This historic recognition, announced on September 14, 2026, highlights a relentless commitment spanning more than five decades, during which Chile has not reported a single human case of rabies. The WHO's validation serves as a testament to the country's effective strategies for preventing the transmission of the disease, including extensive dog vaccination campaigns, rigorous surveillance, and timely access to post-exposure prophylaxis. Dr. Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, the WHO Director-General, commended Chile for this achievement, noting that it reflects the impact of sustained investment in public health and provides valuable lessons for other nations aiming to eliminate rabies.
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