Canine rabies in Nigeria, 1970 - 1980 reported cases in vaccinated dogs

From 1970 through 1980, 14 cases of rabies in vaccinated dogs, were reported in various parts of Nigeria. All the dogs (100%) were owned, and adult (93%); most demonstrated furious behaviour (64%), and had exposure to humans (43%). A history of vaccination was reported for 1200 dogs. Of the 14 cases there were 10 cases of apparent vaccine failure involving modified live (low egg passage chick embryo) vaccine in use during the study period. In 4 of these cases, infection may actually have been induced by the vaccine. Surveillance should be heightened to monitor efficacy of vaccines in current use in the country.