Geographic information system analysis of rabies spread in island forest-steppe of East Siberia

Aim. To identify spatiotemporal features of rabies spread in island forest-steppe areas of East Siberia, a geographic region where this infection was not previously recorded among foxes.

Materials and Methods. We analyzed 871 cases of rabies in animals registered during 20022018 in Republic of Khakassia and Krasnoyarsk Region. Mapping was carried out using geographic information system technologies (QGIS 3.6.3 program). The cartograms were prepared annually.

Results. About 50% of rabies cases were registered among foxes (Vulpes vulpes), and the cases were mainly confined to the steppe and forest-steppe landscapes. The spread of rabies beyond the forest-steppe hollows occurred along the valleys of large rivers with an average speed of 142.9 kmper year (б = 63.7).

Conclusion. After the introduction of the virus in 2002, rabies spread over 3 years to all the steppe and forest-steppe hollows of the Yenisey Siberia. Subsequently, a natural focus with pulsating boundaries was formed. The core of the outbreak is located in the Minusinsk and Chulym-Yenisei hollows. The results of the mapping can be used to combat rabies, for instance, in performing oral vaccination of foxes.

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