Evaluation of data input in a rabies testing request form for herbivores

Abstract

Bovines and equines are the domestic animals with the highest incidence of rabies in Brazil. This study evaluated the data input in testing request forms for rabies in herbivores accompanying samples sent to a certified laboratory of rabies diagnosis in the state of Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil. Information was obtained systematically from all forms sent to the laboratory in 2013 and 2014 using a collection instrument that listed variables about the kind of form used, municipality of origin, description of the suspected animal, clinical signs, sample collection, and conservation procedure. The 11 most relevant variables (municipality of origin, geographic coordinates, species, gender, breed, age, herd size, clinical signs, persistence of clinical signs, biological material, and sample conservation) were assessed for the quality of the data entered, and percentage data input was calculated per form. In total, 603 forms were sent to the laboratory. The most used form was the FORM SN, (82.0%, 497/603). “Excellent” and “good” data inputs were observed only for one variable describing the location of suspected rabies cases or outbreaks and animals (species, gender, biological material). Quality of data input of variables describing geographic coordinates, age, breed, herd size, clinical signs, persistence of signs, and sample conservation method varied between “average” and “poor”. The data input in testing request forms for herbivores are not dully supplied in suspected cases neurological syndromes, pointing to the need to increase awareness and improve training of field staff.

Bovine rabies in Rio Grande do Sul: positivity rates, geographical distribution, and seasonal occurrence

“…Although insectivore and frugivore bats are also relevant in rabies epidemiology (BATISTA et al, 2009), the D. rotundus bat is the primary source of infection in cattle and has been located in urban areas in Brazil (DANTAS-TORRES; Besides this, studies regarding the ecology and biology of different bat species in RS are also important to help understand bovine rabies in the state. Another important issue to be considered concerns the poorly filled out request forms for herbivore rabies testing, as reported by Migliavacca et al (2020). While the variable of the municipality was correctly filled out, geographic coordinates were poorly stated and several samples were sent in without a submission form.…”