[Rabies as a public health problem].

Rabies virus belong to the family Rhabdoviridae; it has a coiled RNA core surrounded by a bullet-shaped envelop, covered with glycoproteins surface projections. After entry into a new host in the bite site, the virus multiplies in muscle cells and it spreads through neural pathways, without stimulating a protective host immune-response. Transmission depends on simultaneous delivery of virus to the salivary gland and the limbic system of the brain, which is the cause of the animal fury and biting tendency. In México, rabies continues to be a serious health and economic problem, and urban rabies still predominates with a large number of human and animal cases recorded yearly. A total of 426 human deaths were reported between 1978 and 1983. Over 9,069 cases of animal rabies were reported in 1986 and 50,000 patients required antirabies postexposure vaccinations. Infected animals can be identified by demonstration of specific fluorescence in brain tissue. A dog or cat which has bitten a human should be captured and observed by a veterinarian for 15 days. The immediate objective of postexposure treatment is to prevent virus from entering and damaging neural tissue, therefore, promptness is essential. All wounds should be thoroughly cleared with soap and water concurrent use of both passive and active immunization provides optimal therapy. Wherever possible, human rather than equine products should be used for passive immunization, and Fuenzalida's nerve tissue rabies vaccine should be used for active protection. Paediatricians should urge parents to caution children attempting to get stray or wild animals as pets. Domestic dogs and cats should be thoroughly vaccinated.