Rabies in livestock in the United States (2012-2021)

Rabies in livestock in the United States (US) poses a significant public health concern due to the potential for human exposure and economic losses to producers. Understanding the epidemiology of rabies in livestock supports broader One Health goals by enhancing early detection of viral incursions and protecting both animal and human health. This study assessed the epidemiology of rabies in livestock in the US from 2012 to 2021 using surveillance data reported to the National Rabies Surveillance System. A sensitivity analysis was conducted to estimate economic losses, including livestock value and human postexposure prophylaxis. A total of 947 rabid livestock were reported during the study period, with cattle accounting for 65.9% of cases. Skunk rabies virus variants were the most frequently identified variants (53.5%), and more than half of all rabid livestock were reported in Texas, Oklahoma, Kansas, Virginia, and North Carolina. When adjusted for livestock population, the highest infection rates occurred in the northeastern US. Estimated economic losses totaled $18.6 million (range, $9.8 to $39.6 million) assuming detection rates of 100% (lower bound) and 66% detection (upper bound). Rabid livestock are routinely detected in the US, with the highest number of rabies infections concentrated in 2 states, Texas and Virginia. Economic losses due to rabid livestock are sizeable, driven primarily by postexposure prophylaxis costs. Livestock vaccination should consider regional risk, animal value, and the potential for human exposure. The companion Currents in One Health by Nathan et al, JAVMA, forthcoming 2025, addresses patterns of rabies vaccine failures in domesticated animals.