TITLE:
Study of the Anti-Rabies Immune Response in Vaccinated Dogs in Boké, Guinea: Implications for Canine Rabies Control Strategies
AUTHORS:
Casimir Dossou Kpanou, Albert Sourou Salako, Arnauld S. M. Djissou, Ousmane Diaby, Alphonse Keller Konkon, Soumanou Salifou, Hadiatou Diallo, Roseline Attolou, Safiou Idrissou, Almamy Ousmane Deen Camara, Daouda Konaté
KEYWORDS:
Rabies, Canine Vaccination, Anti-Rabies Antibodies, Immune Protection, Zoonotic Disease, Guinea
JOURNAL NAME:
Open Journal of Veterinary Medicine,
Vol.16 No.7,
July
28,
2026
ABSTRACT: Canine rabies remains a major public health concern in West Africa, where domestic dogs represent the principal reservoir for human transmission. Evaluating postvaccination immune responses under field conditions is essential to optimize vaccination strategies and sustain herd immunity. This study assessed the level of humoral immune protection induced by rabies vaccination in dogs in Boké, Guinea. A cross-sectional serological survey was conducted among vaccinated dogs in the urban municipality of Boké. Anti-rabies virus-neutralizing antibody titers were quantified using a commercial ELISA, and statistical analyses were performed using nonparametric tests. Seroconversion was observed in 97% of vaccinated dogs, and 87% exhibited protective antibody titers (≥0.5 IU/mL). Antibody responses varied significantly with vaccine type and dog age, with higher titers recorded in adult animals. Housing conditions had no measurable effect. A significant decline in antibody titers was associated with increasing time since vaccination. Rabies vaccination in dogs in Boké generally induces adequate immune protection; however, variability in antibody persistence underscores the need for strengthened postvaccination monitoring and adherence to vaccination schedules.