Rabies exposure surveillance and analysis in Guangzhou, 2013–2017

ObjectiveTo understand the epidemiological characteristics of rabies in Guangzhou.

MethodsThe surveillance data of rabies in Guangzhou from 2013 to 2017 were used for descriptive analysis.

ResultsThe rabies exposure rates were 823.64/100 000, 822.86/100 000, 901.72/100 000, 988.30/100 000, and 1 187.20/100 000, respectively, in Guangzhou from 2013 to 2017, showing an increasing trend (P＜0.05). Animal-related injuries in each year mainly occurred in summer and autumn (June-October), accounting for 45.17%–48.41% of the total cases. Dogs were responsible for most animal-related injuries, accounting for 65.53% of all the injuries. The proportions of degree Ⅱ and Ⅲ exposures ranged from 56.16% to 61.02% and from 28.61% to 31.38%, respectively, during 2013–2017. All the exposed persons received rabies vaccination. However, the annual passive immunization rate was relatively low during this period, which was only 15.06%, 6.91%, 7.30%, 5.38% and 7.06%, respectively.

ConclusionA large number of people exposed to rabies in Guangzhou. The injection rate of rabies immunoglobulin was low in local degree Ⅲ exposure cases. It is suggested that the health education about rabies should be strengthened to increase the passive immunization rate and the joint prevention and control mechanism by multi departments should be established to strengthen dog management.