Risk of rabies transmission by human contact with marmosets (Callithrix jacchus) in Ceara state, Brazil.

Abstract

A new variant of the rabies virus was identified, associated with cases of human rabies, in the state of Ceara, transmitted by common marmosets (Callithrix jacchus), which are frequently kept as pets. The present study aimed at evaluating the risk factors of transmitting human rabies by contact with domiciliary captive common marmosets (C. jacchus) in the metropolitan region of Fortaleza, Ceara. A questionnaire that focused on animal management and interaction between humans and primates was applied to people who kept marmosets in the municipalities of Aquiraz and Maranguape. 19 residences were identified where they had common marmosets (C. jacchus) as pets. After questionnaire analysis, it was found that there is a close relationship between humans and their pet marmosets, especially during management practices. The common marmosets (C. jacchus) represent risk, for the transmission of rabies, to people who keep these small primates in the home environment.