ABSTRACT
<p><b>OBJECTIVE</b>To analyze 21 cases of rabies from February 8 to May 1 in 2004 in Anlong county in Guizhou province, and to explore the possible factors causing the epidemics.</p><p><b>METHODS</b>21 cases of rabies were investigated. The canine brains were collected, and indirect immunofluorescence assay was used to detect rabies virus antigen in the brains.</p><p><b>RESULTS</b>From February 8 to May 1st in this year, 21 cases of rabies were reported, with 5.12/100,000 of the prevalence rate. Dogs accounted for 20 cases, and cat for one case. Median incubation period was 36.52 days, but less than 15 days in 6 cases. Among 21 cases, 17 cases were not correctly treated, and 9 cases received vaccine, with 3 cases vaccinated in time. No cases received passive immunization of antirabies serum or human antirabies immune globulin. A total of 73 dogs' brains were examined for rabies viral antigen by IFA, and 9 (12.33%) were positive.</p><p><b>CONCLUSION</b>The increasing number of dog, high rate of virus carrier in dogs, incorrect treatment of the wound, and as well as low inoculating rate of rabies vaccine might be responsible for the outbreak of rabies in Anlong county.</p>