Publication:

Knowledge, attitude and practices about rabies prophylaxis among medical officers

Background One of the important requirements to achieve “Zero Human rabies deaths by 2030” is to build awareness of the PEP and care for exposed victims. So, this study was undertaken with the aim and objective to study knowledge, attitude and practices related to animal bite transmitting rabies, amongst medical officer.

Methods A cross sectional study was done among 95 medical officer. Pretested and structured questionnaire was prepared related to training sessions conducted and their knowledge, attitude and practices (KAP) related to rabies prophylaxis. Data was entered and analysed using Microsoft Excel 16 version. Percentages were calculated and appropriate statistical test were applied.

Results None of them had received training on rabies prophylaxis. Regarding WHO categorization of animal bite, 69.5% participants had sufficient knowledge about category III, 47.4% about category II and 42.10% about Category I. Only 4.21% participants were aware of the preexposure prophylaxis and 29.47% participants had sufficient knowledge about intradermal (ID). schedule. Attitude was poor (47.40%) regarding willingness of administrating equine antirabies serum at their setup. 81% practiced immediate wound toileting and 45.30% of participants administered ARV by intradermal route. All patients were referred to tertiary care centre for administration of ARS and 82.10% of participants referred the patients immediately.

Conclusions There was an apparent lack of awareness seen in rabies prophalaxis and management. Effort should be taken to emphasize the importance PEP management through regular reorientation programs.