Rabies surveillance in the Russian Federation.

Rabies is endemic to the Russian Federation. The disease incidence ranges between 2,000 and 4,000 cases annually. Between two and six cases in humans are also reported each year. Wild animals are the basic reservoir and vector of the virus, and the incidence of rabies in foxes and raccoon dogs amounts to 50% of the total number of disease cases. When outbreaks occur, the disease is also reported in domestic animals. To prevent the further spread of rabies, vaccination of domestic animals and oral immunisation of wildlife are practised. Unfortunately, vaccine coverage and disease prevention measures have not been sufficient to achieve a notable improvement in the rabies situation in the country.