Regulatory Systems for Prevention and Control of Rabies, Japan
2008

Regulatory Systems for Prevention and Control of Rabies in Japan

publication Evidence: high

Author Information

Author(s): Takahashi-Omoe Hiromi, Omoe Katsuhiko, Okabe Nobuhiko

Primary Institution: National Institute of Science and Technology Policy, Tokyo, Japan

Hypothesis

Japan's regulatory systems provide an effective model for the elimination of rabies worldwide.

Conclusion

Japan has successfully eliminated rabies due to its geographic isolation and systematic management of susceptible animals and humans under relevant laws and regulations.

Supporting Evidence

  • Japan has been free of rabies for about 50 years, with only 3 imported cases reported.
  • The regulatory systems include vaccination and registration of domestic dogs.
  • Quarantine measures for imported animals are strictly enforced.

Takeaway

Japan has not had rabies for about 50 years because it has strict rules for vaccinating dogs and controlling animal imports.

Methodology

The study reviews Japan's laws and regulations regarding rabies prevention and control, focusing on vaccination, registration of domestic dogs, and quarantine measures for imported animals.

Limitations

The study does not provide specific data on the effectiveness of the vaccination coverage, which is assumed to be less than 40%.

Digital Object Identifier (DOI)

10.3201/eid1409.070845

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