Retrospective analysis of the state of anti-rabies vaccination in dogs in Chile, 2002-2012

Abstract

The last rabies case that hit a young man at Quilpué, Valparaiso region, has generated interest again for dogs that can be found in streets. This is due to the problems arising in public health, such as dog bites, and transmission of zoonoses, such as rabies. Vaccination against rabies in dogs is essential to maintain limits to the virus transmission.

Objective. This review focuses on estimating the proportion of canine rabies vaccination in different cities of Chile between 2002 and 2012.

Methodology. Only undergraduate student’s theses of three Chilean universities were used as a source of information, all related with demographic characterization and/or sanitary aspects of canine populations.

Results. An average of 51,4% of dogs vaccinated against rabies was observed in studies that did not request rabies certificate and 25,1% of vaccinated dogs in studies where rabies certificate was requested.

Discussion. Analyzing the percentages of rabies vaccination in dogs in some places of Chile, it is possible to establish that vaccination coverage in these areas is less than the 70% proposed by the OIE for dogs populations, which implies a risk of presenting rabies cases in animals and humans.

Conclusion. In some areas of Chile there are low levels of rabies vaccination in dogs, sometimes being null. Is necessary to promote responsible ownership of companion animals and educate about the mandatory annual rabies vaccine in dogs.