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Endemic Rabies in Ghana

Epidemiology and Control Measures

Rabies is well established in Accra and there has been no decline in canine or human cases during the past 5 years. In the first 6 months of 1975, canine cases almost doubled over the period average. So far dogs are the only confirmed carnivorous vector in Ghana. A clear seasonal peak exists, so that intervention efforts can be timed to achieve a maximum impact. Persons at greatest risk of contracting rabies are males and school-aged children, who need improved educational and post-dog bite services. The fundamental issue for health policy is to achieve a proper balance between environmental, preventive and treatment aspects of rabies. The report describes problems with logistics, canine vaccine shortage and failures, lack of owner cooperation, and control of a large stray dog population. Several proposals to improve coordination and organization of control programs are suggested.

Accepted for publication March 6, 1976.