The analysis of prevalence, prevention and control measures of rabies in Lithuania during 2005 – 2008

The aim of this master‘s thesis was to conduct the analysis of the prevalence, prevention and control measures of rabies in Lithuania during 2005-2008. Rabies cases were registered in all ten counties. The highest rabies virus prevalence was registered in Vilnius, Utena, Alytus and Panevėžys counties which cover the northern, north eastern and southeast territory of Lithuania. In the 2005-2008 year period rabies in wild species composed 81,1% and 18,9% in domestic species of all the rabies cases. The majority of rabies cases were registered in racoon dogs (48,6%), foxes (38,6%), cattle (39,8%), dogs (29,2%) and cats (27,6%). Racoon dog rabies cases increased in autumnt – winter period, while fox rabies cases increased in March –May. Cattle rabies prevalence was higher in August – October. Medical aid was provided to peope who had contact with domestic (91%) and wild animals (9%). 70,4 % of them were injured by dogs. Adults seeked medical aid after contact with animals more often (69,6%) than young people (30,4%) up to 15 years of age. Immunopreventive means were aplied to 63% of all affected people. Intake of rabies vaccine baits increased from 52,2% in 2006 to 72,07% in 2008. Fox and racoon dog rabies oral vaccination efficacy increased from 37,77% to 62,06% respectively. Domestic animal vaccination efficacy in 2008 was 91,2%. Public rabies awareness is adequate