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Rabies, the most lethal zoonosis, causes an estimated 59,000 deaths worldwide annually. Dogs are the most common vectors globally, but mandatory vaccination has eliminated dog rabies in the U.S.
On May 30, 2015, eight dogs and 27 cats, intended for adoption, arrived in New York from Cairo, Egypt. They were distributed to several animal-rescue groups and directly to several foster homes in multiple states. Four dogs went to three foster homes in Virginia. On June 3, an adult female dog in a Virginia foster home showed signs of rabies, including hypersalivation, paralysis, and hyperesthesia. The dog was euthanized, and examination of brain tissue confirmed rabies. A public health investigation found that the dog's vaccination papers had been f…