Bats and their role in human rabies epidemiology in the Americas: [review]
J. venom. anim. toxins incl. trop. dis
;
14(2): 193-202, 2008. tab
Article
in English
| LILACS
| ID: lil-484560
ABSTRACT
Bats are very interesting animals they are the unique flying mammals, have developed a highly sophisticated echolocation system, and have become specialized to eat different types of diets. Hematophagous (vampire) bats are those specialized to feed solely on blood and have served as a source of inspiration for researchers as well as for writers. Vampire bat attacks on humans have moved from the realm of science fiction to reality in Latin America and bats (including non-hematophagous ones) have assumed an important role in the transmission of rabies virus to humans. This article discusses the emerging role of bats as rabies virus transmitters, with particular emphasis on the role of hematophagous bats in the epidemiology of human rabies in Latin America. Possible reasons associated with the increasing risk of exposure to bats in this region are also discussed.
Full text:
Available
Index:
LILACS (Americas)
Main subject:
Rabies
/
Rabies virus
/
Chiroptera
/
Disease Transmission, Infectious
Type of study:
Screening study
Limits:
Animals
Language:
English
Journal:
J. venom. anim. toxins incl. trop. dis
Journal subject:
Toxicology
Year:
2008
Type:
Article
Affiliation country:
Brazil
Institution/Affiliation country:
Oswaldo Cruz Foundation/BR
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