Vol. 11, Special Issue 7 (2022)

Author(s):
S Dubey, RV Singh, B Gupta, DK Gupta, A Nayak, A Rai, R Vandre, R Patel, HK Sharma and KK Jadav

Abstract:
Rabies is endemic in India and kills 20000-30000 people every year. Vaccination and awareness are the two major tools to develop rabies control strategies that transcend sectoral boundaries. However, the status of protective antibody titre post vaccination is seldom checked thereby indicating a gap of awareness among the stakeholders. Therefore, the present study was carried out to evaluate the awareness of rabies among general public. The statistical analysis of knowledge, attitude and practice was done by Bivariate x² and multivariate general linear model. The awareness study showed significant gaps. Multivariate general linear model of the demographic characters of respondents viz. genders, educational and occupancy and persons in the household also showed significant difference statistically. The study revealed that along with vaccination, evaluation of antibody titre should be made compulsory. The pet owners should be made aware of the good dog management practices. The questionnaire-based study on knowledge, attitude and practice increases dog owners and non dog owners interest about rabies, vaccination and prevention. Such study will be helpful in enhancing awareness and also in reduction of risk factors.