PREDISPOSAL FACTORS OF DOG BITE AND RABIES IN PLATEAU STATE

Abstract

This study investigated knowledge, attitudes, predisposal factors, incidence and risk factors of rabies in Plateau State. Retrospective data were used from the National Veterinary Research Institute (Veterinary clinic) Vom record book registered between 2010 – 2018 and responses obtained from closed ended structured questionnaires from dog owners in some Local Government areas of the State. There is adequate knowledge of rabies in the studied area 91.8% (616/671). Based on rabies vaccination status, vaccinated, unvaccinated and uncertain dogs had incidence of 7.9% (139/1763), 74.5% (1313/1763) and 12.0% (211/1763) respectively which was statistically significant (P<0.05). reasons for dog bite was attributed to provoke, unprovoked and poor restraint by owner 18.4% (45/245), 18.0% (44/245) and 63.7%(156/245) respectively. The major causes of dog bites are threat to its puppies (nursing dogs) 31.7% (190/599), Hunger 29.5% (177/599) and straying into its territory 14.2% (85/599). In relationto sex, incidence of dog bite was higher among males 53.4% (852/1597) than females 46.7% (745/1597) which was not statistically significant (P<0.05). male dogs incidence of bite was higher 59.5% (603/1014) than female dogs 40.5% (411/1014). Risk factor analysis indicated that level of awareness of rabies, lack of vaccination of dogs against rabies and irresponsible dog ownership are associated with the incidence of rabies in the studied area. This study observed a high incidence of rabies 24.7% (411/1666) among dogs involved in bites. It is thus recommended that there should be increased veterinary education on the public risk of rabies, responsible dog ownership and welfare in the study area.