Re-emergence of rabies: Assessment of knowledge and self-reported practices regarding rabies among youth in Central Kerala

Background: In India, about 15 million people are bitten by animals, mostly dogs, every year and need post-exposure prophylaxis. During and after the Covid era, there has been an increase in the number of cases of rabies and deaths due to rabies. It is estimated that number of animal bites may be many times more than those reported. The recent rabies death among people who have taken anti-rabies vaccines on schedule have triggered concerns. Objective: To assess the existing knowledge and self-reported practices among youth regarding rabies in central Kerala. Materials and Methods: The present cross sectional study was conducted among youth belonging to age group of 20-40 years of both genders in Pathanamthitta District, Central Kerala from October 2022 to December 2022. Variables were expressed using percentages and proportions. A Chi-square test was used for analyzing the association between demographic variables and knowledge related to rabies. Results: Among the study participants, 53% of them had good knowledge in rabies. Chi-square test of the study data revealed an association between educational status, place of residence of study participants and their knowledge regarding rabies. Conclusion: Although about half of the study population had good knowledge regarding Rabies, the inadequate knowledge of the remaining half of the study population needs to be addressed urgently in order to prevent the resurgence of rabies.