Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jul 14, 2026

In Vitro ELISA Test to Evaluate Rabies Vaccine Potency
Published on: May 11, 2020
[The point on human rabies in Senegal from 1986 to 2005]
1Service des maladies infectieuses Ibrahima-Diop-Mar, centre hospitalier national universitaire de Fann, BP 5035, Dakar, Sénégal. sylvieaudreydiop@yahoo.fr
Abstract:
Between 1986 and 2005, 54 patients were hospitalized for rabies in the infectious diseases clinic, with an average of 3 cases a year. The patients came from almost all regions of Senegal, Dakar (11 cases), Thiès (9 cases), and Fatick (9 cases). They were native of rural and suburban zones. The median age was 19 years (range 5-72). Children and teenagers between 5 and 15 years of age were the most concerned (53.7%). Stray dogs were the main vector (75% of cases) but a case of bite by a puppy and a case of bite by a jackal were noted. Bites were mostly located in limb extremities (98%). Only 12 patients consulted a health institution after the bite and among these cases, 4 were referred to the Dakar Pasteur Institute but consulted late. Incubation was 45 days on average (range 25 to 90 days). All our patients presented a furious form of rabies. The average duration of hospital stay was 6 days (range 1-15 days). The local investigation proved an under reporting of cases in a proportion of 1 case reported for 4 non-reported cases.
Insights
Rabies hospitalizations in Senegal averaged 3 cases annually, primarily affecting children and teenagers. Underreporting of rabies cases was significant, with an estimated 4 non-reported cases for every reported case.
Area of Science:
- Epidemiology
- Infectious Diseases
- Public Health
Context:
- This study analyzes rabies hospitalizations in Senegal from 1986 to 2005.
- Data was collected from an infectious diseases clinic, documenting 54 cases over two decades.
- Patients originated from various regions, with a concentration in Dakar, Thiès, and Fatick.
Purpose:
- To describe the epidemiological characteristics of rabies hospitalizations in Senegal.
- To identify the primary vectors and affected demographics.
- To assess healthcare-seeking behaviors and reporting rates for rabies.
Summary:
- A total of 54 patients were hospitalized for rabies, with a median age of 19, predominantly affecting children and teenagers (53.7%).
- Stray dogs were the main vector (75%), with bites mainly on extremities. Most patients did not seek timely medical attention.
- The furious form of rabies was universal, with an average incubation period of 45 days and hospital stay of 6 days.
Impact:
- Highlights a substantial underreporting of rabies cases, with a 1:4 ratio of reported to unreported cases.
- Underscores the critical need for improved rabies surveillance and public awareness, especially in rural and suburban areas.
- Informs public health strategies for rabies prevention and control in Senegal.
More Related Videos
Related Concept Videos
Rabies
American Trypanosomiasis
Arboviral Encephalitis
Yellow Fever

