An analysis of animal bite cases attending anti-rabies clinic attached to tertiary care centre, Bikaner, Rajasthan, India

Background: Rabies is a widespread, neglected and under reported zoonosis with an almost 100% case fatality rate in human untreated on time, and causes a significant social and economic burden. Objective: Analysis of animal bite cases attending Anti-rabies clinic attached to Prince Bijay Singh Memorial (PBM) hospital, Bikaner, Rajasthan. Methods: The study was conducted amongst patient who attended the Anti-rabies clinic attached to PBM hospital Bikaner for management of their Category II and III injuries caused by bites by various animals, during the 3 year period. Results: Amongst 10916 victims who attended 8335 (76.36%) were males and rest females (male: female ratio 3.2:1). 5796 (53.10%) patients belonged to rural area and 5120 (46.90%) were from urban area. The bite injuries involved different site. Bite of Lower limb accounted for the most 4980 cases (45.62%) then were those of upper limb. Distribution of patients according to different age groups showed preponderance in the 0-10 year’s age group 2768 (25.35%) patients, 2266 (20.07%) were in the 11-20 years age group. The most common biting animal was stray dog (76.33%). Month wise distribution showed highest incidence during January 11.11%, and the least cases reported in the month of September 5.81%. Conclusions: India is amongst those countries reporting highest number of deaths due to rabies and also is amongst those countries where most people receive post exposure prophylaxis but true number is still lacking because of absence of well-organized surveillance system. Epidemiological studies like present study may help assess the true magnitude of problem.