First Report of Gray Foxes (Urocyon cinereoargenteus) Infected with Bat-Associated rabies Virus (Desmodus rotundus rabies virus) in Costa Rica

Résumé fourni par la source

Objective: Rabies is a lethal zoonotic viral disease that affects mammals. Although Costa Rica has not reported any cases of canine rabies since 1987, cases of bat-transmitted rabies virus in domestic animals are recorded annually. Cases in wild carnivores remain sporadic, and surveillance of these species has intensified during the past 7 years. Herein, we present three cases of gray foxes (Urocyon cinereoargenteus) infected with bat-associated rabies virus (Desmodus rotundus rabies virus) in residential neighborhoods of Costa Rica. Methods: Brain tissue samples from the foxes were analyzed with histological and molecular methods, including RT-PCR and Sanger sequencing. Results: Test findings confirmed the presence of vampire bat rabies virus in wild mammals (gray fox) inhabiting peri-urban areas near humans and domestic animals. Conclusions: This study underscores the urgent need to review current rabies protocols to ensure timely provision of prophylactic medical care for people and pets with suspected exposure. Furthermore, educating the public regarding the risks associated with rabies transmission in wildlife is essential to prevent incidents with potential to endanger public health.