Expert Opinion to Identify High-Risk Entry Routes of Canine Rabies into Papua New Guinea

Area of Science:

• Veterinary Public Health
• Epidemiology
• Risk Assessment

Background:

• Papua New Guinea (PNG) is at risk of canine rabies introduction due to its proximity to endemic regions.
• The disease poses a significant threat to PNG and the wider Oceanic region.

Purpose of the Study:

• To identify the primary routes for canine rabies virus (rabies) incursion into PNG.
• To pinpoint high-risk pathways associated with human movement and dog entry.

Main Methods:

• A structured, in-country expert-elicitation workshop was conducted.
• Twenty potential entry routes for dogs into PNG were identified and evaluated.

Main Results:

• Three land routes from Papua, Indonesia, were identified as high-risk: hunters, traditional border crossers, and unregulated 'shopper-crossers'.
• Two sea routes, associated with fishing and logging activities, were also identified as high-risk entry pathways.
• These routes facilitate the movement of dogs, a primary vector for rabies transmission.

Conclusions:

• Specific land and sea routes pose the greatest risk for canine rabies introduction into PNG.
• Findings will inform targeted risk assessments, surveillance strategies, and incursion response plans.
• Proactive measures are crucial to prevent rabies establishment in PNG and the Oceanic region.