Publication:

Impact of training on knowledge of pharmacy students regarding animal bite management and rabies

Background Rabies is a highly fatal viral zoonotic disease but preventable by timely and appropriate post exposure prophylaxis. Most animal bite cases are found in rural areas where victims of animal bite don’t get proper treatment due to shortage of doctors. Pharmacists are important part of primary level health care.

Methods A cross-sectional study was conducted between February to May 2023. 100 pharmacy students, posted for their internship in ARC of MKCG Medical College were included in the study. Their knowledge was assessed by pre-test using a self-administered questionnaire. Training was given for 7days on animal bite management and prophylaxis against rabies, then post-test was administered. Data was analysed using Jamovi software.

Results The number of correct responses to questions about animal causing rabies, correct schedule, site and mode of vaccination improved from 16 to 33, 33 to 89, 72 to 93, 68 to 88 respectively after training.

Conclusions Training was effective in improving the knowledge regarding animal bite management and rabies among pharmacy students. Therefore, regular training should be conducted for updated knowledge of pharmacists as well as all medical professionals to achieve elimination of rabies by 2030.