Animal Testing for Rabies Control in Taiwan - Council of Agriculture, Republic of China (Taiwan)
────── October 2013 ──────
Taiwan was recognized by the international community as being rabies-free for the past 50 years. The results of the genomic sequence analysis of the pathogen performed after the current outbreak, which occurred in the island’s mountainous areas, revealed that it differs from rabies viruses found in neighboring countries. The government therefore sought advice from domestic and foreign professional organizations and individuals renowned for their expertise in rabies control. The overwhelming majority, including the World Organisation for Animal Health, agreed that animal testing is crucial for clarifying the pathogenicity and disease symptoms in host animals, facilitating epidemiological traceability, formulating major prevention and control strategies, establishing long-term preventive measures, and preventing new types of diseases.
According to the World Health Organization, approximately 55,000 people die from rabies annually, with 90% due to a scratch or bite from a rabid dog. The pathogenicity, incubation period, and symptoms of this new type of rabies virus in Taiwan have yet to be clarified. Animal tests will also determine the pathogenicity of this new type of rabies virus infection in canines. The results will help warn veterinarians and the public of the pathogenicity and symptoms of this new type of rabies virus in canines and prevent future infections.
For the above reasons, the government decided to approve relevant animal tests. These will strictly adhere to the scientific method and the “three Rs” principle (replace the use of animals with alternative techniques, reduce the number of animals tested, and refine the procedures to reduce pain and distress), as well as the ROC Animal Protection Act. As normal, the competent authorities will provide stringent oversight.
Although the ferret badger is found throughout Southeast Asia, regrettably little international research on this animal has been done. Given Taiwan’s extensive research experience and achievements in biotechnology, however, the collaboration between government, academia, and industry is geared toward developing highly effective strategies for rabies prevention and control. This will provide neighboring countries with an important reference for introducing similar programs.
The ROC government appreciates all the comments and suggestions it has received from various quarters, and has conveyed these to the competent authorities. Protecting the health and welfare of all creatures on this planet is very important, and the government is committed to fulfilling its obligations as a responsible member of the international community.