Rabies epizootiology and control methods in Czechoslovakia

In Czechoslovakia from 1976-1980. 26,306 animals from 44 different species were examined for rabies. A total of 3270 rabies cases were diagnosed during this period. Foxes account for 90% of all cases. Rabies in domestic animals is reported only sporadically. Rabies was permanently established in the mountainous border regions up to the year 1975. Since 1976 the wave of rabies has gradually spread to the interior of the country. The border mountains did not restrict the movement of foxes, which are responsible for carrying the disease, towards the interior. The river Vltava has stemmed the spreading of rabies for more than two years but it cannot be considered an absolute natural barrier. A bounty of 150 Crowns is paid for every fox handed over to the Veterinary Service. In districts with rabies incidence the gassing of fox dens is carried out. The principal measures relating to domestic animals are the compulsory, and charge free, vaccination of dogs in the whole country.