Epidemiological analysis of 36 cases of rabies in Jining city, Shandong province

ObjectiveTo analyze rabies in Jining city, Shandong province in 2006 and determine the factors associated with the increased prevalence, and provide evidence for the development of more effective control and preventive strategies. MethodsData of rabies cases in the city in 2006 were collected for comprehensive analysis of exposed/bitten parts of the body, onset age, onset time, wound management. ResultsAll 36 patients of rabies lived an agricultural living, age of onset ranging mainly from middle-aged to elderly. The onset time was concentrated mainly from June to November. Most culprit dogs were domestic, and had a healthy appearance. Meanwhile, wounds were not managed in a timely manner and with standard procedures; most victims did not receive rabies vaccine, anti-rabies virus serum/anti-rabies immunoglobulin injection. ConclusionIncreasing number of domestic dogs and mismanagement, untimely management of wounds including standard vaccination in authorized clinics, and inadequate rabies vaccine and anti-rabies serum/anti-rabies immunoglobulin therapy constituted the primary causes of morbidity and mortality of rabies. Therefore, the government shall attach importance to the implementation of relevant control strategies to strengthen public health education, control the infectious source, enhance epidemic surveillance in order to scientifically prevent and control the diseases. Preventive vaccines are vital to rabies control.