Animal attacks on humans by animals suspected of carrying the rabies virus are an increasing public health concern in developing countries. This study assessed trends, determinants, complications, and future projections of animal attacks in the Sidama region of Ethiopia. A facility-based retrospective study was conducted at Bushulo Mother to Child Center from April 1 to July 1, 2025, among 2933 individuals who presented from January 30, 2014, to December 31, 2024, following attacks by potentially rabies-suspected animals. Complications related to animal attacks and rabies vaccinations were summarized using frequencies and percentages as adverse health-related outcomes. Temporal trends were analyzed using join point regression to estimate annual percentage change. Determinants of animal attacks were identified using a frequency-matched case–control design with binary logistic regression. Double exponential smoothing was applied to forecast annual animal attacks from 2025 to 2030. From January 1, 2014, to December 31, 2024, animal attacks increased significantly, with an annual percentage change of 6.9% (95% CI 5.1–8.8). Dogs were the most common attacking animals (64.7%), followed by hyenas (20.2%). Among 1883 individuals who developed complications, bleeding requiring transfusion (56%) and local infections (28.9%) were the most frequent. Children younger than 14 years old had a twofold higher risk of attack (AOR 2.01; 95% CI 1.5–4.66), as did urban residents (AOR 2.05; 95% CI 1.76–3.55). Forecasting indicated a continued rise in attacks through 2030. Severe neurological complications occurred in 5% of individuals, exclusively among nerve tissue vaccine recipients. Animal attacks are increasing in the Sidama region, predominantly involving dogs and hyenas, and are associated with substantial morbidity. Strengthened prevention strategies, safer rabies vaccination practices, and improved surveillance systems are suggested.
Nasir et al. (Fri,) studied this question.