Rabies Reemergence, Central Europe, 2022-2024

Area of Science:

• Veterinary Virology
• Epidemiology
• Public Health

Background:

• Oral rabies vaccination campaigns have historically been successful in controlling and eliminating rabies in European regions.
• Recent surveillance data suggests a potential resurgence of rabies, challenging previous eradication successes.

Purpose of the Study:

• To analyze recent rabies virus data from 2022-2024 to identify emerging trends and variants.
• To assess the geographical distribution of detected rabies virus variants in Eastern Europe.

Main Methods:

• Analysis of rabies virus surveillance data collected between 2022 and 2024.
• Identification and characterization of rabies virus variants circulating in affected regions.

Main Results:

• The study identified the reemergence of two distinct rabies virus variants.
• Both variants were detected in multiple Eastern European countries, including Ukraine, Moldova, Poland, and Romania.
• This indicates a concerning spread and potential establishment of new rabies lineages.

Conclusions:

• The findings underscore a significant reemergence of rabies in parts of Europe.
• There is an urgent need to reinforce and adapt rabies control strategies in the affected region.
• Continued surveillance and international cooperation are crucial for managing this public health threat.