UAE denies reports of high risk of dog rabies in country – News

In a statement, the Ministry of Health further urged residents and the public to obtain information only from official sources and not to spread rumours.

A ministry in the UAE has denied reports that the country is at high risk of rabies.

In a statement sent exclusively to the Khaleej Times, the Ministry of Health and Prevention (MoHAP) confirmed that the UAE has been completely free of any cases of rabies since the “early 1990s”.

The US-based Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has added the UAE to its list of 110 countries it has identified as “high risk” for dog rabies.

However, MoHAP said it had “successfully integrated preventive measures with the animal health sector.” It also attributed its rabies-free status to its “proactive preparedness and response to all health risks”.

In the UAE, all dogs must be regularly registered and vaccinated. They must have microchips and up-to-date vaccinations. The country has a very effective vaccination program for dogs and other animals that helps keep pet-related diseases at a very low level.

According to the UAE Statistical Annual Report 2020 published by MoHAP, the incidence of rabies in the country is zero.

In its statement, the ministry further urged residents and the public to obtain information only from official sources and not to spread rumours. It also urges people to keep abreast of the latest developments and instructions advised by health authorities.

According to CDC regulations, all foreign-vaccinated dogs entering the United States from countries with a high risk of rabies must have a CDC dog import permit or be booked at a CDC-approved animal care facility. Beginning March 1, 2023, a valid CDC rabies vaccination and microchip record is required to be licensed or to make a reservation. “CDC does not accept foreign-issued pet passports or any other foreign proof of rabies vaccination.”

CDC strongly recommends rabies vaccination for dogs from countries not classified as high risk. The additional requirements listed above do not apply.