Role of Lesser Developed Nations in Rabies Research

The contributions of lesser developed nations to rabies research can be significant in several areas. The type of health system that supports complex veterinary-public health programs, the operational research that is required in these countries, the follow-up epidemiologic surveillance, and the involvement in technology transfer concerning new rabies vaccines and rapid and simple diagnostic procedures are all crucial to the success of rabies prevention in developing countries. Results of a relevant research project carried out in the Kathmandu Valley in Nepal, India, are discussed. Despite spectacular advances in medical and veterinary technologies, the health conditions of the majority of people in lesser developed nations remain highly unsatisfactory and are a cause of deep concern. Medical and veterinary training in these nations often follow the pattern of training in developed countries, with the resultant desire for specialization. Because of this pattern and the scarcity of resources, most health care has become oriented toward treatment of individual patients, leaving