Cats: The New Challenge for Rabies Control in the State of Yucatan, Mexico

Area of Science:

• Veterinary Virology
• Epidemiology
• Spatial Analysis

Background:

• Yucatan's population growth drives construction, increasing human-wildlife contact.
• Recent rise in feline rabies (Felis catus) cases in Yucatan.
• Need to understand rabies virus characteristics and spread in felines.

Purpose of the Study:

• Antigenic and genetic characterization of rabies viruses in Yucatan felines.
• Map the spatial distribution and environmental features of feline rabies cases.
• Assess the risk of rabies transmission to other species, particularly dogs.

Main Methods:

• Analysis of nine feline rabies cases from 2003-2022.
• Antigenic typing to identify rabies virus variants.
• Genetic characterization of detected rabies virus strains.
• Geospatial mapping using ArcGIS and R software.

Main Results:

• Three antigenic variants identified: RVV1 (dog-related), RVV3 (vampire bat), and an atypical canine-originated variant.
• The atypical variant was the most prevalent (n=7).
• Cases were concentrated in urban areas (Merida, Muna) and one rural area (Cuncunul).

Conclusions:

• Feline rabies is resurging in Yucatan, posing a threat for potential reintroduction into dog populations.
• The atypical variant's genetic link to canine rabies necessitates maintaining high vaccination rates.
• Vigilance and sustained vaccination coverage are crucial for rabies control in susceptible species.