Serological survey of the rabies virus in dogs reared in the area around the Pukhansan National Park

북한산 국립공원 주변지역 사육견의 광견병 항체 분포조사

This study was conducted to investigate the prevalence rate for rabies antibody (PRRA) of dogs near the Pukhansan National Park and in some other districts in Seoul Metropolitan city. From April to July 2000, a total of 414 serum samples were taken from dogs for breeding (92), pet dogs (162), and unclaimed/stray dogs (162). Rabies virus antibodies were detected by neutralizing peroxidase-linked assay (NPLA). Of 414 sera tested, 145 (35%) were positive to rabies virus antibody. PRRA in Pukhansan National Park area and in the other districts of Seoul city were 34.8% and 35.4%, respectively. There was no significant difference in the prevalence rate between these two districts. PRRA in pet dogs, unclaimed/stray dogs, and dogs for breeding were 39.5%, 35%, and 27.2% respectively. PRRA in dogs from residential areas, apartments, animal hospitals, and farms were 32.5%, 60%, 35.3%, and 26.7% respectively. Especially, the dogs reared in apartments had a significantly higher seroprevalence (60%) than those in residential or farm areas. PRRA in less than 1 year, 1~<2 years, 2~<3 years, and over 3 years old dogs were 14.7%, 40.4%, 38.4%, and 53% respectively, and overall 35% in the dog population. In addition, we found that dogs less than 1 year of age had lower antibody prevalence than those over 1 year of age. It was concluded that enhancement of vaccination is important in the prevention of the rabies, and that rabies vaccines should not be less supplied than the population of the dog.