Epidemiology of human rabies in Yueyang city of Hunan province,2001 - 2008

Objective To analyze the epidemiological trend of human rabies and the influence factors, and provide scientific evidence for rabies control and prevention. Methods All rabies cases in Yueyang from 2001 to 2008 were analyzed by the method of descriptive epidemiology. Results Totally 170 rabies cases were reported during this period. The average annual incidence was 0.41/lakh and the case fatality was 100％. The cases were distributed in 9 counties, mainly in Pingjiang, Yueyang, Xiangyin, Miluo and Huarong, accounting for 73.53％ of the total. Male farmer and student in rural area were the high risk population, and the cases mainly occurred in summer and autumn. Most cases were caused by dog bite. After exposure, most patients (82.94%) didnt receive vaccine and/or anti-rabies serum injections. Conclusion The rabies epidemic in Yueyang was serious. It is vital to strengthen the control and prevention of rabies, especially in rural areas.