Epidemiological Profile of Canine Rabies in Bouca in the Central African Republic

Rabies is a deadly viral disease transmissible to humans and remains a major public health issue in several regions of Africa in general, and in the Central African Republic in particular; due to a high population of stray dogs and a low rate of canine vaccination. This study examines the epidemiological situation of rabies through a retrospective descriptive study, based on records of people bitten by dogs in all healthcare facilities and veterinary posts in the town of Bouca, which is located in the Ouham prefecture at 6°30′26″ North, 18°16′31″ East. The study was conducted on an estimated canine population of 7,955 (dogs and cats) and 38,163 people distributed across four localities. We recorded 30 individuals bitten by dogs. Nearly all of the bitten persons were recorded in Bouca Center (28 cases), accounting for 93.66%. The highest frequency of bites was among farmers, representing 40%, followed by students at 30%, and traders at 23%. More than 80% of the bitten individuals were not vaccinated. However, after exposure, 93% of them received post-exposure vaccination. Community awareness, systematic vaccination, and proper management of the canine population are essential to reduce transmission and prevent human cases. These results indicate that the rabies virus still circulates in the Bouca region, highlighting the need to strengthen rabies control programs in this isolated area to improve public health and control the spread of this major zoonotic disease under surveillance. Urgent and appropriate measures must be implemented to protect both human and animal populations.