Assessing Rabies Awareness: A Knowledge, Attitudes, and Practices Study in an Urban Population of Bhopal City

Introduction: Rabies is a universally fatal yet preventable disease, posing a significant public health challenge, particularly in regions with high animal prevalence. Data on dog bites and rabies awareness in Bhopal city are limited. This study was conducted to assess the knowledge, attitudes, and practices regarding rabies among patients at the Urban Health Training Center (UHTC) of Chirayu Medical College and Hospital, Bhopal. Materials and Methods: This cross-sectional study included 150 adults attending the outpatient department of the UHTC from March to May 2025. Data were collected using a structured, pretested questionnaire after obtaining informed consent. Data were sorted, compiled, and analyzed using MS excel. Data were presented in tabular and graphical forms and frequency and percentages were calculated. Results: Among the 150 participants, 43.3% had heard of rabies, 60.6% knew about its transmission through bites or scratches, and 64.6% understood it as fatal. Approximately 67.3% knew about postexposure prophylaxis and 74% indicated they would seek hospital care after an animal bite. However, only 43.3% supported sterilization to control stray dog populations. While 70% endorsed pet vaccination, only 15.3% vaccinated their pets annually showcasing a clear gap between awareness and practices. Conclusion: The study reveals significant gaps in rabies-related knowledge and practices among the population. Targeted educational initiatives, improved access to vaccination, and collaborative public health efforts with local administration are essential to reduce the incidence of rabies.