# Detection of rabies virus in Callithrix penicillata (Geoffroy, 1812) in Montes Claros, Minas Gerais State, Brazil

## TL;DR

Rabies virus was detected in two wild animals in Montes Claros, Brazil, including the first case in marmosets, highlighting the need for preventive measures.

## Contribution

First reported case of rabies in Callithrix penicillata in the urban area of Montes Claros.

## Key findings

- Rabies virus was detected in frugivorous chiropterans and marmosets in Montes Claros.
- This is the first documented case of rabies in Callithrix penicillata in the region.
- The findings indicate rabies is circulating in the urban area, posing a public health risk.

## Abstract

This report describes the occurrence of the rabies virus in two species of wild
animals in the urban area of Montes Claros (MOC), Minas Gerais State, Brazil, in
May 2023. The virus has been detected in frugivorous chiropterans
(Artibeus sp) and marmosets (Callithrix
penicillata). This is the first notified case of the rabies virus
in the species C. penicillata in the urban area of MOC. Our
findings show that the rabies virus is circulating in the urban area of MOC;
therefore, permanent preventive measures must be adopted to avoid infection of
other animals and humans.