Data on the prevalence of rabies cases in foxes in Romania between 2020 and 2024

Rabies remains one of the most important zoonotic diseases in Romania, representing a persistent concern for public and veterinary health, despite considerable progress in prevention and control strategies. The country's geographical position, biodiversity and interactions between domestic animals, wildlife and human populations contribute to the ongoing risk of viral transmission. Although large-scale vaccination programs and coordinated surveillance efforts have significantly reduced the incidence of the disease in recent decades, sporadic cases continue to occur, particularly in rural areas where interactions between humans and animals are more frequent and access to timely post-exposure prophylaxis may be limited. Wild species, particularly foxes and other wild carnivores, play a crucial role as reservoirs in maintaining the circulation of the rabies virus. At the same time, domestic animals, particularly dogs and cats, can serve as a bridge for transmission to humans when vaccination coverage is insufficient. Rabies control strategies in Romania are based on an integrated One Health approach, combining animal vaccination, oral immunization campaigns for wild animals, public education and effective diagnosis and reporting systems.