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[Comparative techniques for the diagnosis of rabies and its incidence in Tamaulipas in 1987]
J Martínez Burnes1, A Moguel Paz, A Casar Solares
1Laboratorio de Diagnóstico, Facultad de Medicina Veterinaria y Zootecnia de la Universidad Autónoma de Tamaulipas, Ciudad Victoria.
Abstract:
Rabies in suspect cases was diagnosed by immunofluorescence, histopathology and biological tests in samples from government health centers in Tamaulipas, Mexico during 1987. Comparative analysis between the diagnostic results and the epidemiological survey was performed. Brain samples of 278 suspect animals were studied; 45 cases were positive to rabies (16.1%). The centers providing high number of samples and positive cases correlate with counties of high human and canine population density, however, the percentage of positive cases versus samples sent does not correlate with the same counties, therefore making it possible to establish high risk areas. During spring, an increase of positive samples were received possibly associated with the canine breeding season. Urban rabies is a real problem in Tamaulipas, expressed by 97.7% of positive canine samples, 63.6% males and 36.3% females of an average age of fifteen months and were primarily of native breeds. Only 22% of positive cases had been previously vaccinated against rabies. A 56.3% incidence reduction versus the last four years was observed. It was concluded that a reduction of false positive results is possible when using the 3 diagnostic procedures described.
Insights
Rabies diagnosis in Tamaulipas, Mexico, identified 16.1% of suspect animals testing positive. This study highlights urban rabies challenges and effective diagnostic methods for reducing false positives.
Area of Science:
- Veterinary Medicine
- Epidemiology
- Public Health
Background:
- Rabies remains a significant public health concern, particularly in regions with high canine populations.
- Accurate diagnosis and epidemiological surveillance are crucial for effective rabies control programs.
Purpose of the Study:
- To diagnose rabies in suspect animal cases in Tamaulipas, Mexico, during 1987.
- To compare diagnostic results with epidemiological data to identify high-risk areas.
- To evaluate the effectiveness of combined diagnostic methods.
Main Methods:
- Diagnosis of rabies using immunofluorescence, histopathology, and biological tests on brain samples.
- Analysis of 278 suspect animal samples.
- Comparative analysis with epidemiological surveys, including population density and vaccination status.
Main Results:
- 45 out of 278 samples (16.1%) tested positive for rabies.
- Positive cases correlated with high human and canine population density areas, but not solely by sample submission rates.
- Urban rabies was prevalent (97.7% of positive canine samples), with a notable increase during spring, possibly linked to breeding seasons. Only 22% of positive cases were vaccinated.
- A 56.3% reduction in incidence was observed compared to the previous four years.
Conclusions:
- Combined diagnostic procedures (immunofluorescence, histopathology, biological tests) can reduce false positive rabies results.
- Identifying high-risk areas for rabies is possible through comparative epidemiological analysis.
- Urban rabies control requires targeted strategies, considering canine population dynamics and vaccination coverage.