Changes in serum antibody titer following rabies vaccination in the giant panda

Abstract

The aim of the present study was to assess the immune response and safety of a commercially available rabies virus vaccine in the giant panda. Serum antibody titers were measured and recorded during a one-year period post-vaccination. We injected 13 giant pandas with inactivated adjuvant vaccine against the rabies virus produced by NOBIVAC of Netherlands, followed by blood collection for serologic response. Rabies antibody titers were measured over a period of 12 months using the fluorescent antibody virus neutralization (FAVN) test. No adverse reactions were observed. Furthermore, the vaccine was able to elicit a strong immune reaction from recipients of adult groups, and maintain an adequate level of antibody titers for the duration of at least one year. Panda cubs received vaccines for the first time were 50% (2/4), developed an antibody response post-vaccination. We concluded that this vaccine is safe and effective for use in the giant panda, providing strong protection against exposure to rabies.