Epidemiology of Animal Bite Cases Attending Casualty at a Tertiary Care Hospital, Ongole

Abstract

Background: Animal bites, particularly dog bites, are a major public health concern due to the risk of rabies, a zoonotic disease that is almost invariably fatal once symptoms develop. Despite effective post-exposure prophylaxis (PEP), India continues to bear a substantial burden.

Objectives: To assess the epidemiological profile of animal bite cases and preventive measures.

Methods: A hospital-based cross-sectional study was conducted over 3 months (April to June 2024) at a tertiary care hospital in Ongole, Andhra Pradesh. A total of 200 animal bite victims were included using convenience sampling.

Results: Most of the victims were aged 25–50 years (42.5%), males constituting 68.5%. Dog bites accounted for 94.5% of cases. 79% were due to stray dogs and 90% unprovoked. Category II wounds were most common. Lower limbs were affected in 66.5% of cases. Although 66.5% cleaned wounds before hospital visit. Early reporting (within 6 hours) was observed in 72.5%, while 25.5% used home remedies.

Conclusion: Dog bites remain a significant public health issue. While treatment-seeking behaviour was satisfactory, gaps in appropriate wound care persist, emphasizing the need for improved awareness and strengthened rabies prevention strategies.