Background and Objectives: Animal bites are one of the most important public health problems that cause rabies. This study aimed to investigate the preventive measures taken for animal bite cases that occurred in West Azerbaijan province during 2012 to 2019.
Methods: This cross-sectional study involved the review data from all animal bite cases referred to rabies care centers in West Azerbaijan province. Information regarding prophylactic measures to prevent rabies, including post-bite procedures (washing, disinfection, dressing, stitches and receiving antibiotics), anti-rabies vaccine status (referral delay, vaccine dose received, vaccination history, anti-rabies serum, tetanus vaccination history) was analyzed using descriptive statistics. The relationship between delay in referral and the measures taken was investigated using the Chi-square test.
Results: Over the studied years, there were 47131 cases of animal bites. Among these, 63.9% were referred without delay, while 36.1% experienced a delay in referral. Notably, 99.6% of wounds were washed with soap and water, 94.5% were disinfected, and 31.3% received antibiotics. The proportion of individuals receiving antibiotics was significantly higher among those with delayed referrals. Regarding rabies vaccination, 77.3% had received all three initial doses, 15.4% had completed five doses, and 1.1% had not received any vaccine.
Conclusion: While prophylaxis measures for animal bite cases are commendable, there is a critical need for timely administration of rabies vaccine in rabies care centers. Implementing educational programs for general population to encourage prompt treatment-seeking in the event of animal bites is essential.
