Laboratory Surveillance of Rabies in Humans, Domestic Animals, and Bats in Madagascar from 2005 to 2010
2011

Rabies Surveillance in Madagascar (2005-2010)

Sample size: 461 publication 10 minutes Evidence: moderate

Author Information

Author(s): Reynes Jean-Marc, Andriamandimby Soa Fy, Razafitrimo Girard Marcelin, Razainirina Josette, Jeanmaire Elisabeth Marie, Bourhy Hervé, Heraud Jean-Michel

Primary Institution: Institut Pasteur de Madagascar

Hypothesis

To assess the circulation of lyssavirus in Madagascar from 2005 to 2010.

Conclusion

Rabies remains endemic in Madagascar despite the introduction of the vaccine over a century ago.

Supporting Evidence

  • Half of the 437 domestic or tame wild terrestrial mammal brains tested were found RABV antigen positive.
  • Nine of the 10 suspected human cases tested were laboratory confirmed.
  • RABV circulation was confirmed in 34 of the 38 districts sampled.

Takeaway

This study looked at rabies in Madagascar and found that even with vaccines, the disease is still common, especially in dogs.

Methodology

Animal and human samples were tested for rabies virus using various detection methods including antigen detection and virus isolation.

Limitations

The study was limited by the number of samples from certain districts and the inadequate storage of some samples.

Participant Demographics

Samples included 450 from animals (mostly dogs and cats) and 11 from humans.

Statistical Information

Confidence Interval

95% CI 53.6%–67.7%

Digital Object Identifier (DOI)

10.4061/2011/727821

Want to read the original?

Access the complete publication on the publisher's website

View Original Publication