Epidemiological study on animal bite cases referred to Haji Daii health Center in Kermanshah province, Iran during 2013–2017

摘要

BACKGROUND:Over thousands of animal bite cases are reported annually worldwide and in Iran placing a large financial burden on the health and economy. The aim of this study was to evaluate the epidemiology of animal bite cases in Kermanshah, Iran through 2013-2017.METHODS:In this cross-sectional study, 5618 animal bite cases in Kermanshah from 2013 to 2017 were studied. Data were analyzed using descriptive and inferential statistics.RESULTS:In the study period, 5618 animal bite cases were found. The prevalence of animal bites was estimated between 42.55-45.66 per100000 populations during 2013-2017. An increasing significant trend was found for prevalence of animal bites (Average annual percent change [AAPC]?+?4.9, P-trend?0.001) over a 5-years' time period. The mean age of the subjects was 32.7?±?18.3?years. Of the studied subjects 76.3% were male, and 34% had non-governmental jobs. Dogs were found as the cause of animal bites in 72% of the cases. Of the studied cases, 82% had received rabies vaccination for three times.CONCLUSION:The results showed an increasing significant trend for animal bites in Kermanshah. Development of interventional programs, such as limiting stray dogs, vaccination of dogs and raising public awareness are essential.