A survey of rabies-related knowledge and awareness among college students in northwestern Pennsylvania

In fall of 2023, students enrolled at Grove City College, a private liberal arts institution located in rural northwestern Pennsylvania, were surveyed by an Internet questionnaire to assess their rabies-related knowledge and awareness. Of 2,394 students surveyed, 553 (23.1%) completed the online questionnaire. Areas of knowledge where the survey respondents did well include (a) knowing whether rabies exists in Pennsylvania, (b) knowing if pets and livestock can get rabies, and (c) knowing if rabies is fatal. Areas of knowledge where the students fell short include (a) knowing who to contact if confronted with an animal suspected of being rabid, (b) knowing which animals are most responsible for the spread of rabies, and (c) knowing whether a rabies vaccine is available for humans. The findings of this study provide a snapshot of the limitations in rabies-related knowledge and awareness among college students, which could translate to higher risk of rabies exposure in this select population. Given the deadly nature of the disease, gaps in rabies-related knowledge and awareness among college students should be promptly addressed during their formal college education, which, from a public health perspective, would benefit the student, their families, and the public.