ORAL VACCINATION OF FOXES AGAINST RABIES IN BULGARIA

Over the past few years from 2007 to 2009, three years' rhythm of epizooties of sylvatic rabies was observed in Bulgaria. For that period of time, 148 positive cases of rabies by 104 foxes, 10 jackals, 16 dogs, 14 cats and 4 pieces of domestic animals were recorded. For control and circumscription of rabies in Bulgaria in 2009-2010, around 3 321 380 vaccine baits were disseminated by Lysvulpen modified live vaccine for immunization of the population of red foxes ( Vulpes vulpes). Initial data are received directly by measuring the serological response of foxes and tetracycline marker included in the bait uptake by the wild target animals. The vaccination campaign of foxes has significantly reduced the incidence of rabies among animal populations in Bulgaria.