Local wound care and circumstances of animal bite reported by attendees of a rabies vaccination clinic in Kolkata.

Background: Rabies remains a significant public health challenge, particularly in developing countries like India, where it is primarily transmitted through animal bites, predominantly from dogs. Effective wound management following bites is critical for reducing rabies transmission. However, studies indicate that proper wound care practices are often neglected, leading to increased incidence rates.

Objectives: This study aimed to evaluate the wound care measures adopted by individuals attending a rabies vaccination clinic and to assess the relationship between these practices and participants' sociodemographic characteristics.

Materials and methods: An observational, descriptive, cross-sectional study was conducted in a rabies vaccination clinic of Kolkata, over 3 months (July 2024 to September 2024). The calculated sample size of 322 participants was selected using systematic random sampling technique. Data were collected through a pretested, validated interviewer-administered questionnaire, focusing on sociodemographic characteristics and wound care practices, particularly the timing and methods of wound washing.

Results: Of the 322 participants, 69.57% were aged 20-59 years, with 32.92% being female and 92.24% residing in urban areas. Unprovoked bites constituted 54.66% of total bites. Although 90.68% reported washing their wounds post-bite, only 10.87% adhered to the recommended practice of washing for at least 15 min with soap and under running water. Notably, sociodemographic characteristics showed no significant association with wound washing practices.

Conclusion: Despite the awareness of wound washing, improper practices persist, highlighting a need for targeted educational programs to enhance awareness about optimal wound care following animal bites. Public health initiatives should focus on improving awareness across all demographics to effectively mitigate rabies transmission.