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Documenting freedom from disease and re-establishing a free status after a breakdown. Rabies
1National Veterinary and Food Research Institute, Department of Virology and Epidemiology, P.O. Box 368, SF-00231 Helsinki, Finland.
Acta Veterinaria Scandinavica. Supplementum
|March 6, 2002
Summary
Rabies returned to Finland in 1988 in a wildlife (sylvatic) form, primarily affecting raccoon dogs. A successful oral vaccination campaign in wildlife helped eradicate rabies by 1991.
Area of Science:
- Veterinary Medicine
- Epidemiology
- Wildlife Biology
Background:
- Rabies (Rabies virus) re-emerged in Finland in 1988 after a 29-year absence.
- The sylvatic form of rabies was identified, with raccoon dogs being the primary species affected.
- The 1988-1989 outbreak resulted in 66 diagnosed rabid animals.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the re-emergence of rabies in Finland.
- To implement and evaluate control measures, including oral vaccination, to combat the outbreak.
- To establish long-term strategies for rabies prevention and surveillance.
Main Methods:
- Conducted a field trial for oral immunization of raccoon dogs and foxes using vaccine-laden baits.
- Administered three rounds of baiting across the outbreak area and a buffer zone.
- Implemented compulsory dog vaccination and recommended vaccination for cats, cattle, and horses.
Main Results:
- Finland was declared rabies-free again in 1991.
- The oral vaccination campaign was effective in controlling the sylvatic rabies outbreak.
- Annual oral vaccination campaigns have been conducted along the southeastern border since the early 1990s.
Conclusions:
- Oral vaccination of wildlife is a crucial tool for controlling and eradicating sylvatic rabies.
- Continuous surveillance and epidemiological screening are essential for early detection of potential new outbreaks.
- Sustained efforts are necessary to maintain Finland's rabies-free status.