Author/Authors :
Khazaei, Salman Research Center for Health Sciences - Hamadan University of Medical Sciences, Hamadan, , Karami, Manoochehr Department of Epidemiology - School of Public Health - Hamadan University of Medical Sciences, Hamadan , Veisani, Yousef Psychosocial Injuries Research Center - Ilam University of Medical Sciences, Ilam , Solgi, Manoochehr Department of Epidemiology - School of Public Health - Hamadan University of Medical Sciences, Hamadan , Goodarzi, Shahram Department of Public Health - Nahavand Health Center - Hamadan University of Medical Sciences, Hamadan
Abstract :
Objective: To address the epidemiology of animal bites and associated factors with delay in post-exposure prophylaxis (PEP) in Nahvand district, western Iran.Methods: Data were obtained from Rabies Treatment Center (RTC) in Nahavan district from March 2015 to March 2017. All of referred cases to RTC include 1448 cases of animal bites using the census method were recruited. Epidemiological profile of participants was demonstrated using descriptive statistics and determinants of PEP was addressed by logistic regression model.Results: The majority of victims were males 1167(80.5%). superficial bites were more prevalent than deep status injuries (1145(79.0%) VS. 303(20.9%)). The biting rate differed according to season in the period of the study (p<0.001). Cases who experienced animal biting in the autumn was more likely to refer timely for PEP than cases in spring season (OR, 0.39; 95% CI: 0.26 - 0.59, p<0.001).Conclusion: Our findings addressed the pattern of potential delays in PEP including the role of season. Local authorities of Nahavand district should considered preventive activities and educational interventions to reduce animal biting and provide timely prophylaxis.
Keywords :
Post-exposure prophylaxis , Vaccination , Animal bites , Rabies
