In March 2024, the Timor-Leste Government reported the first confirmed fatal human case of rabies to the World Health Organization (WHO) and the World Organisation for Animal Health. Recognising the importance of addressing rabies at a regional level, the Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry committed to supporting neighbouring countries such as Timor-Leste in managing the risk of dog-mediated rabies and improving rabies control efforts.
As a result, the Office of the Chief Veterinary Officer (OCVO) has partnered with Timor-Leste’s Ministry of Agriculture, Livestock, Fisheries, and Forestry (MALFF) to support their rabies surveillance, dog vaccination programs, and community awareness campaigns. By adopting a One Health approach, the OCVO and MALFF aim to reduce rabies transmission and increase public awareness of dog-mediated rabies in Timor-Leste.
In October 2024, the OCVO engaged a Risk Communications and Community Engagement specialist from RedR Australia to work with Timor-Leste’s Ministries of Agriculture, Health, and Education. The goal was to develop a comprehensive One Health rabies risk communications strategy and implementation plan. This strategy includes a public awareness campaign, risk communication skill transfers to local personnel, and contributing to a National Strategic Plan for rabies management for the Timor-Leste government.
The public awareness campaign is already underway and includes initiatives such as an animated children’s cartoon, a podcast discussion featuring the Timor-Leste Chief Veterinary Officer and President of the Timor-Leste Veterinary Association, social media content including bite victim testimonials, rabies awareness advocacy by Timorese celebrities to reach a wide audience, and One Health education flyers aimed at groups with high risk of rabies exposure. These materials are being developed in collaboration with local ministries and the WHO to educate the public about rabies prevention, including the importance of mass dog vaccination. The awareness campaign is being gradually rolled out leading up to the 2025 annual canine rabies vaccination campaign.
Through continued collaboration and education, Australia is supporting Timor-Leste to take important steps to curb the spread of rabies and protect communities from this deadly disease. By working together and supporting regional efforts, we move closer to achieving a dog-mediated rabies free world by 2030, safeguarding both human and animal health for generations to come.
For more information on the department’s partnership with Timor-Leste see: Australia partners with Timor-Leste as World Rabies Day seeks elimination by 2030 - DAFF
