Rabies in the Arab Republic of Egypt: III. Enzootic rabies in wildlife.

Five hundred and thirty-two rodents (10 species) and 112 other wild mammals (six species) were examined for rabies infections in Egypt. Rabies virus was isolated from the brains of three (1-2%) of 249 Gerbils, Gerbillus gerbillus and one (1-8%) of 56 foxes, Vulpes species. In neutralization tests these isolates were found to be identical to classical rabies virus. Significant numbers of rodent and other wild mammal species need to be examined before they may be excluded as possible reservoirs of rabies virus in Egypt. Based on initial findings it may be wise to reevaluate antirabies treatment for rodent bites occurring within the Arab Republic of Egypt.