It feels great to be part of the solution

Q: On 28 September many companies and institutions will be actively recognising the World Rabies Day. Why do you think it’s important to get involved?

A:  First, it is worthwhile remembering the great scientist Louis Pasteur who created the first rabies vaccines and laid the foundations of rabies prevention - this day commemorates his death. So for us, a science- and research-driven company, it’s a no-brainer to support this important day. In addition, our predecessor, Institute Mérieux, made the first inactivated cell-cultured rabies vaccine available to the world and Lyon became one of the cradles of industrial vaccine production after WW2. Marcel Mérieux, who founded the institute in 1897, was actually a disciple of Pasteur’s. This is an important subject for me and for the company – this is what we do, we advocate for prevention, and know rabies can be eliminated. This topic is close to our hearts and minds.

Q: In June 2018, WHO published a global strategic plan Zero by 30 which aims to end human deaths from dog-mediated rabies by 2030. How big is this issue?

A: An estimated 59,000 people die from rabies each year, 40% of whom are children. Although the most affected areas are Asia and Africa, this viral disease occurs in more than 150 countries and territories. As dog bites cause almost all human cases, we can prevent rabies deaths by increasing awareness, vaccinating dogs to prevent the disease at its source and admin­istering life-saving treatment after people have been bitten. I believe in prevention over treatment as vaccinating saves lives and is the most cost-effective strategy.

Q: Is this goal too aspirational?

A: You have to aim high and rabies is really an issue. It’s a great mission and a commendable goal. This campaign, which tries to engage communities to build awareness of rabies and vaccinate dogs to prevent human disease, requires close collaboration between, at a minimum, the human and veterinary health sectors. The statistics are truly tragic because rabies transmission is 100% preventable with a proper vaccination protocol and awareness program. As one of the leaders in the animal health industry and a producer of the most comprehensive range of rabies vaccine in the world, so we have a responsibility and duty of care to get involved.

It is important to recognise that WHO has been joined by others, such as OIE, FAO and GARC – their coordinated response aims to prevent rabies while strengthening human and veterinary health systems to reach the world’s most underserved populations. This approach also aligns with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals.

However, the progress of this mission may be hindered by many myths about vaccination. To counter unfounded arguments and to ensure accessibility of vaccines for current and future disease control needs, it is critical to improve the image of vaccines through pro-active advocacy campaigns. This is why regulatory authorities, researchers, industry, veterinarians, the media and the general public need to work together to separate truth from myths and gain a clear understanding of the benefits and risks associated with vaccines. 

Q: You’ve mentioned prevention over treatment; can you elaborate on what you mean?

A: Prevention and preventive care are so critical. The old adage “an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure” certainly holds true when it comes to pet health. The cost of prevention is often a fraction of the cost of treating a disease once it has become more advanced, and early diagnosis and treatment of developing problems or diseases can increase the likelihood of successful outcomes. But costs tell only a part of the story: first and foremost, animals should be protected against pain and suffering.

Looking at the subject more holistically, protecting animals means preserving our future. Prevention and disease control have major benefits for agricultural production, food security and safety, public health, animal wellbeing, and access to market, to mention but a few.

We are among those who strive for addressing the current challenges and making a positive difference in the world. That’s why we are so passionate about what we do and how we do it. Being part of the solution drives us forward, motivates us and inspires us - it simply feels great.

Q: The term human-animal bond is quite popular nowadays. What’s your view?

A: It’s been proven that the human-animal bond can provide benefits to humans; animals appeal to fundamental human needs for companionship, comfort, and security. When companion animals live closely with humans, there is an improvement and enrichment of the lives of humans, enhancing their health, wellbeing and quality of life.

For example, our pets can give us a reason to exercise, offer an antidote for loneliness, and provide us with loving companions to care for. I am convinced that animals can influence not just our happiness but also our health.

Q: Last word?

A: I believe that focus on prevention is the right approach going forward, and not only for a company such as ours: for example, the EU Animal Health Strategy also revolves around the ‘prevention is better than cure’ ethos. I’ve recently seen this quote by Bill Gates: “Treatment without prevention is simply unsustainable”. He may have meant another industry but these words apply to many areas of our life, including animal health. I also believe that when animals are healthy, humans are healthy too. We bear that in mind every day, in everything we do.