Four genetically distinct types of rabies virus exist in Vietnam, including the SEA1 and SEA3 subclades within the Asian clade.

Abstract

Rabies is a fatal zoonotic disease that causes encephalitis in almost all mammals. Vietnam remains endemic for rabies and shares borders with China, Laos, and Cambodia, where the disease also persists. Nucleoprotein and full-genome sequencing are valuable tools for investigating the genetic diversity and transmission dynamics of circulating rabies virus (RABV) strains. This study aimed to assess the current rabies situation in Vietnam and genetically characterize RABV strains using both sequencing approaches. Human and canine rabies cases are reported annually in Vietnam, where approximately half a million people receiving post-exposure prophylaxis each year, though this number has recently increased. Epidemiological data and RABVs from humans and rabid dogs were analyzed. Vietnamese RABVs were classified into four distinct genetic groups, all phylogenetically related to viruses circulating in neighboring countries. Full-genome analysis revealed regional differences in virus classification, suggesting that local factors may influence viral circulation between Vietnam and neighboring countries. The high genetic similarity between human- and dog-derived RABVs underscores the continued zoonotic threat and highlights the critical need for a One Health approach to rabies prevention and control in Vietnam and its neighboring regions.