Epidemiological characteristics and preventive strategies of rabies from 1950 to 2006 in Chengdu

Objective The present study was conducted to analyze the epidemiological characteristics and prevalence trend of human rabies in Chengdu,and to probe into the cause of the re-ascending epidemic trend and finally put forward preventive strategies. Methods Descriptive epidemiological analysis were conducted on the basis of reports of the epidemic situation of rabies from 1950 to 2006 and individual case investigations from 2005 to 2006. Results A prevailing peak of the incidence of rabies appeared in 1980s in Chengdu. However,no local case was ever reported in the following 13 years from 1992 to 2004. In 2005,the epidemic returned and the incidence had ascended rapidly since then. Rabies cases were reported in 90% of the administrative areas in Chengdu,more frequently in 5 to 6 suburban districts of the east area (78.17%). Rural residents were mainly affected,while the incidence rate was relatively higher in summer and autumn. Dogs in rural area were the major infective source. However,none of the rabies cases had received any standard treatment after exposure. Conclusion The epidemic of rabies among dogs in rural area and the non-standard post-exposure treatment led to the re-ascending trend of human rabies,which might last for a period of time. Therefore,it is necessary to establish a long-term management mechanism and put all the comprehensive preventive measures into effect.