Epidemiological Study of Rabies from 2001-2016 in Grenada, West Indies

Abstract

Objectives: To determine the status of rabies infection in Grenada from 2001 to 2016 in animal
species with their locations.
Design and Methods: Cases from animal species submitted for rabies diagnosis to the diagnostic laboratory, St. George’s University, School of Veterinary Medicine Grenada, West Indies,
between March 2001 and July 2016 were analyzed. Over 3,000 cases of animals suspected or
tested for rabies were reviewed. Data included the species, sex, age, and location on the island,
vaccination status, test date and the laboratory tests performed. The laboratory tests used for the
diagnosis included; direct fluorescent antibody test (DFAT), polymerase chain reaction (PCR)
and histopathology on the brain tissue.
Results: Out of 173 animals, 64 were positive, 89 were negative, 9 were inconclusive, 3 were
non diagnostic and 8 were excluded due to lack of adequate information. Out of 64 rabies positive animals; 28 were canine, 28 were mongoose, 6 were feline, 1 each were ovine and caprine.
Conclusions: Our results showed that mongoose and dogs pose a threat to humans and other
species of animals in Grenada. Stray dog control program coupled with vaccination are helping
in reduction of rabies in dogs. A program to control rabies in mongoose in Grenada is warranted.