Use of Rabies Post-Exposure Prophylaxis in the Population of Dabou, Côte d’Ivoire, 2016

Background: Rabies is a potential threat to people living in enzootic areas such as Côte d’Ivoire. Unfortunately, many people at risk often do not seek treatment or are very late in starting treatment. Objectives: The aim of this study was to analyse the use of post-exposure prophylaxis among exposed subjects in the town of Dabou. Method: This was a descriptive and analytical cross-sectional study conducted over a three-month period in Dabou. Data were collected by interview using a questionnaire. The data were analysed using EPI INFO software version 6.04. Comparisons were made using the Chi 2 test with a threshold of 5%. Results: Of the 322 subjects exposed, 67.1% were male with an average age of 20 years. 51% of the victims were from the Wrood and Ancien Dabou neighbourhoods and 53% had secondary education. 61.1% of cases were exposed to bites, 83% of which were caused by dogs, and 13% by PEP. In 42.5% of cases, the exposed subjects had sought medical attention within 48 hours. It should be noted that negligence, ignorance, lack of financial resources and the remoteness of rabies centres are the socio-economic and behavioural factors responsible for the delay in seeking PEP. Conclusion: Rabies remains a major public health problem in Côte d’Ivoire, where the main animal species involved is the dog. Rabies control strategies must focus on raising awareness and, more specifically, on the use of PEP.