Epidemiology and Control of Rabies in Cattle and Equines in Rondônia State, a Brazilian’s Legal Amazon Area.
- Journal Article
Summary
This research article investigates trends in the occurrence of rabies in bovines (cattle) and equines (horses) in the Brazilian state of Rondônia from 2002 to 2021 and analyzes how preventative strategies from local sanitary agencies correlate with these trends.
Overview of the Study
The study focuses on the epidemiology of rabies in Rondônia, a state in Brazil’s Legal Amazon area. The researchers collected data on rabies occurrences in bovines and equines over nearly a two-decade span, from 2002 to 2021. They identified:
- 201 cases of rabies in bovines
- 23 cases of rabies in equines
During this time, they noted a decrease in the overall incidence of rabies in both species, without any specific seasonal peaks.
Statistical Analysis of Data
The researchers utilized a statistical analytical method known as the Generalized Estimating Equations (GEE) method. This method enabled them to create a multiple model approach that confirmed the factors significantly associated with the decrease in rabies incidents in the population of bovines and equines.
Associative Factors
Through their analytical model, the researchers identified two main factors that were significantly associated with the observed decrease in rabies incidence:
- The ratio of treated bats: This suggests that interventions aimed at controlling bat populations, which are common carriers of the rabies virus, contributed to the decrease in rabies incidence.
- The ratio of vaccine doses sold: The increased availability and administration of vaccines also contributed to reducing rabies cases within the studied populations.
Interestingly, the researchers also found a positive association between the incidence of rabies and the ratio of printed educative material. This finding implies that while awareness campaigns are crucial, they may not be entirely sufficient for disease control.
Concluding Remarks
Despite the noted decrease in the incidence of rabies in bovines and equines in Rondônia, the study concludes that rabies remains endemic in the area. Continued monitoring and preventative efforts are required to further control the disease. This implies a need for sustained and comprehensive efforts to administer vaccines and control bat populations in the region.
Cite This Article
Publication
Researcher Affiliations
- IDARON-Agency of Agrosilvopastoral Sanitary Defense of Rondônia State, Cacoal 76964-062, RO, Brazil.
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, Brazil University (UB), Descalvado 13690-000, SP, Brazil.
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, Vila Velha University (UVV), Vila Velha 29102-920, ES, Brazil.
- Department of Pathology, Reproduction and One Health, São Paulo State University (UNESP), Jaboticabal 14884-900, SP, Brazil.
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, Brazil University (UB), Descalvado 13690-000, SP, Brazil.
Conflict of Interest Statement
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