Animal and human rabies in Mongolia.

The research article examines the prevalence and control measures of the rabies disease in both wild and domestic animals and the resulting human cases in Mongolia.

Prevalence of Animal Rabies

The research finds that the prevalence of rabies in animals varies across different regions in Mongolia. In the wild:

• Wolves, foxes, corsac foxes, and manuls are identified as the primary carriers of the disease.
• The highest incidence of rabies among these wild animals was recorded in the 1970s, particularly in Dundgovi Province.
• However, the number of rabies cases in these wild animals decreased in the 1980s, possibly due to a decline in their population and improved veterinary measures.
• Recently, the prevalence of rabies has increased in the Khangai and western provinces.

Among domesticated animals:

• Cattle recorded the highest incidence of rabies, followed by camels, sheep, goats, and horses.

Human Rabies Cases

Dogs have been identified as the primary source of human rabies infection in Mongolia. Therefore, improving vaccination programs in dogs is crucial for minimizing the number of human rabies cases.

Rabies Control Measures

The study also outlines efforts to control the spread of rabies in Mongolia, including:

• The establishment of control programs.
• Improved diagnosis methods.
• The implementation of vaccination programs, with a specific focus on dogs as this is the main transmission route to humans.

Overall, the research emphasizes the need for concerted efforts to manage the rabies endemic situation in Mongolia. It advocates for advanced diagnostic measures, effective control programs, and enhanced vaccination methods, particularly in dogs, to mitigate the risk to humans.