Rabies Exposures in South Carolina: A Study
Author Information
Author(s): Catherine W Roseveare, W David Goolsby, Ivo M Foppa
Primary Institution: Upstate Veterinary Specialists
Hypothesis
What are the potential and actual rabies exposures in people and domestic animals in Upstate South Carolina from 1994 to 2004?
Conclusion
Most rabies exposures come from rabid wildlife, despite the majority of reported incidents involving dogs and cats.
Supporting Evidence
- Dogs and cats were responsible for the majority of reported rabies incidents.
- Stray cats were more frequently reported rabid than stray dogs.
- Almost 90% of confirmed rabies exposures were due to wildlife.
Takeaway
This study found that while many people and pets are reported to have rabies exposures, most of these cases actually come from wild animals like raccoons and skunks.
Methodology
Retrospective analysis of surveillance data of reported animal incidents from 1994 to 2004.
Potential Biases
Reporting mechanisms differ for human and animal victims, which may bias estimates of rabies risk.
Limitations
The study may underestimate the actual disease burden due to underreporting of animal incidents.
Participant Demographics
The study included incidents from seven northern counties of South Carolina.
Statistical Information
Confidence Interval
95% CI
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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