Top 5 Takeaways

1. First Rabies Case in Tamanduas: Rabies virus had not previously been reported in tamanduas, making this a novel case.
2. Human Exposures and rPEP: Thirteen individuals received postexposure prophylaxis (rPEP) after exposure to the rabies-infected tamandua.
3. Source of Infection: The tamandua was likely exposed to rabies through wild raccoons at the Virginia zoo.
4. Importance of Preexposure Vaccination: Animal handlers in rabies-endemic areas should consider preexposure rabies vaccination.
5. Public Health Coordination: The case underscores the need for interdisciplinary communication and rabies prevention awareness.

Original Article Author and Citation

Corresponding Author

Heather N. Grome, qds9@cdc.gov

Suggested Citation

Grome HN, Yackley J, Goonewardene D, et al. Translocation of an Anteater (Tamandua tetradactyla) Infected with Rabies from Virginia to Tennessee Resulting in Multiple Human Exposures, 2021. MMWR Morb Mortal Wkly Rep 2022;71:533–537. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.15585/mmwr.mm7115a1

Summary

In August 2021, a South American collared anteater (Tamandua tetradactyla) at a Tennessee zoo tested positive for rabies. The animal had been translocated from a Virginia zoo, where it likely contracted the virus from wild raccoons. Thirteen individuals who had contact with the tamandua received postexposure prophylaxis (rPEP). This case highlights the importance of rabies awareness, preexposure vaccination for animal handlers, and robust public health coordination.

Methods

The Tennessee Department of Health (TDH) conducted an investigation to confirm the rabies diagnosis, identify the rabies variant, and assess exposure risks among those who had contact with the tamandua. Risk assessments were completed for 22 individuals, and rPEP was recommended for 13 of them. Phylogenetic analysis of the rabies virus isolated from the tamandua indicated it was similar to the raccoon rabies virus variant found in Virginia.

Discussion

This case demonstrates the risk of rabies translocation through the movement of captive mammals. The rabies virus variant found in the tamandua was linked to raccoons in Virginia, not Tennessee, where the animal was housed. The incident underscores the need for preexposure rabies vaccination for animal handlers, timely diagnostic testing, and interdisciplinary communication to prevent rabies transmission.

Conclusion

The translocation of a rabies-infected tamandua from Virginia to Tennessee resulted in multiple human exposures, emphasizing the need for preexposure vaccination for animal handlers and robust public health measures to prevent rabies transmission. Continued efforts in rabies prevention, responsible animal ownership, and interdisciplinary communication are crucial.

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