Rabies in South Africa: epidemiological trends for the period 1980-1984

Efficient surveillance and evaluation of data collected is a useful adjunct to a rabies prevention/control programme. Epidemiological analyses were carried out on all rabies cases reported for the period 1980-1984, with emphasis on the frequency and distribution in domestic and wild animals. A significant increase in reported rabies cases since 1982 was noted, with a greater prevalence in domestic animals contributing to the total increase. Rabies in domestic animals was of major importance in Natal, Gazankulu, KwaZulu, Lebowa, Qwa Qwa and Kangwane. Of all the domestic animal rabies cases reported, canines and bovines accounted for 54.5% and 33% of the cases, respectively. The genus Cynictis accounted for 69% of all the wild animal rabies cases reported. The greatest number of rabies cases were reported in the winter months. A definite seasonal trend was demonstrated with domestic animal rabies reaching a peak during August.