RABIES

The Disease

Dog-mediated human rabies is one of the most lethal infectious diseases, with nearly 100% case fatality once neurological symptoms appear. India has the highest rabies burden globally, accounting for over 20,000 deaths annually, primarily among children in underserved rural communities. No approved treatment exists once the virus reaches the central nervous system (CNS), and current interventions rely solely on early post-exposure prophylaxis, which remains inaccessible or delayed for many at-risk populations.

Our Research

FNDR is developing a therapeutic intervention for symptomatic rabies by repurposing a clinically approved molecule with a well established safety profile. Preclinical studies have demonstrated antiviral activity in vitro and improved survival in a murine rabies model. A clinical trial is being planned in collaboration with major Indian hospitals to assess efficacy in human patients.

Donate

Support for this program will enable advancement of the first-ever treatment for symptomatic rabies. Donations will be directed toward critical next steps, including regulatory submissions and the planned clinical trial. A potentially life-saving therapy may soon become available for a disease that has remained universally fatal for centuries. Donations can be made here.