Abstract

MARIN ALVAREZ, Luz Marina; RUIZ SAENZ, Julián  and  RUIZ BUITRAGO, Jhon Didier. Analysis of a program for the prevention and control of wild rabies and its role in the number of cattle outbreaks during years 2001 to 2011. Ces. Med. Vet. Zootec. [online]. 2014, vol.9, n.2, pp.203-217. ISSN 1900-9607.

Bovine rabies is an endemic disease in Colombia. A program has been established in this country for preventing rabies through vaccination and to control the disease by vector control, monitoring of outbreaks and characterization of risk zones. This paper examines how these strategies have influenced the number of outbreaks during years 2001 to 2011. This retrospective observational study analyzed databases built with information reported by Instituto Colombiano Agropecuario (ICA), World Animal Health Information System (WAHIS), Secretaria de Agricultura de Antioquia, and Federación Colombiana de Ganaderos (FEDEGAN). Positive foci, confirmed by laboratory analysis, were referenced and arranged both chronologically and by province. Resolutions and other documents that frame the program for the prevention and control of wild rabies were also consulted and analyzed. 968 outbreaks reported and confirmed as positive evidence of bovine rabies reveal an increasing trend of the disease, which is present in 62.5% of Colombian provinces, especially Antioquia, Arauca, Atlantic, Casanare, Cesar, Chocó and Córdoba. Vaccination covers 9.95% of the population. Economic impact of the disease has not been specified. There is no continuous availability of trained personnel. The program is supported by a well-described methodology and internationally recognized diagnostic methodologies; however, the trend of the disease reveals implementation difficulties and low coverage of vaccination.

Keywords : Bovine rabies; control; outbreaks; prevention.

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