Pre-treatment practices among animal bite victims attending anti-rabies clinic at a tertiary hospital, Bengaluru: A cross- sectional study

Abstract

Context/Background
Rabies is a neglected, vaccine-preventable, zoonotic tropical disease caused when the saliva of an infected animal comes in contact with human mucosa or skin wounds. Dog bites account for up to 99% of all human cases of rabies. Immediate, thorough wound washing with soap and water after contact with a suspected rabid animal is crucial and can save lives. Pre-treatment practices, such as application of irritants are being practiced among the bite victims.