Marco Ruiz1, Carlo Briones Chávez. 1. Department of Medicine, Section of Infectious Diseases and Geriatrics, Louisiana State University School of Medicine, 136 South Roman Street, New Orleans, LA 70112, USA.
Abstract
OBJECTIVE: To review and discuss the available literature for rabies control in Latin America. METHODS: A literature search was conducted in PubMed through October 2008. Articles in English, Spanish and Portuguese were reviewed. RESULTS: Recent reports indicate that the region is close to achieve the goal of eliminating human rabies transmitted by dogs even though there are some isolated cases reported. However, insectivorous and vampire bats continue to expose humans and animals. These cases have been reported with increasing frequency. DISCUSSION: Many challenges to the successful eradication of canine and non-canine rabies have been identified: among these are issues related to vaccine supply, the increase in transmission of canine rabies in certain areas, the presence of bat rabies in geographically inaccessible areas and lack of active action at local level. New strategies for systems information, networking and education are needed. Effective decentralization, adequate reallocation of resources, constant active surveillance, active local community participation and aggressive health education, might be some of the strategies that could prove to be helpful. More investment (funding and resources) and a very strong political commitment are needed to be able to eradicate this deadly disease.
OBJECTIVE: To review and discuss the available literature for rabies control in Latin America. METHODS: A literature search was conducted in PubMed through October 2008. Articles in English, Spanish and Portuguese were reviewed. RESULTS: Recent reports indicate that the region is close to achieve the goal of eliminating human rabies transmitted by dogs even though there are some isolated cases reported. However, insectivorous and vampire bats continue to expose humans and animals. These cases have been reported with increasing frequency. DISCUSSION: Many challenges to the successful eradication of canine and non-canine rabies have been identified: among these are issues related to vaccine supply, the increase in transmission of canine rabies in certain areas, the presence of bat rabies in geographically inaccessible areas and lack of active action at local level. New strategies for systems information, networking and education are needed. Effective decentralization, adequate reallocation of resources, constant active surveillance, active local community participation and aggressive health education, might be some of the strategies that could prove to be helpful. More investment (funding and resources) and a very strong political commitment are needed to be able to eradicate this deadly disease.
Authors: Alfonso Clavijo; Victor Javier Del Rio Vilas; Friederike Luise Mayen; Zaida Estela Yadon; Albino Jose Beloto; Marco Antonio Natal Vigilato; Maria Cristina Schneider; Ottorino Cosivi Journal: Am J Trop Med Hyg Date: 2013-12 Impact factor: 2.345
Authors: N Romero-Sandoval; C Parra; G Gallegos; A Guanopatín; M F Campaña; M Haro; S Calapaqui; C Moreta; F Viteri; M Feijoo-Cid; M Martin Journal: Public Health Action Date: 2013-03-21
Authors: Edward C Mader; Joaquin S Maury; Lenay Santana-Gould; Randall D Craver; Rima El-Abassi; Enrique Segura-Palacios; Austin J Sumner Journal: Clin Med Insights Case Rep Date: 2012-04-30