Profile of dog bite victims in Jos Plateau State, Nigeria: a review of dog bite records (2006-2008)

INTRODUCTION: Dogs are the major reservoir of rabies virus in Nigeria; transmission to humans is via a bite by rabid dog. Between 2006 and 2008 National Veterinary Research Institute (NVRI) rabies laboratory reported increased numbers of rabies in dogs and human dog bites. The objective of the study was to use veterinary and health records to develop a profile of bite victims and recommend appropriate public health actions. METHODS: We used the dog brain specimen result register of Rabies Laboratory of NVRI, from “January, 2006” to “December, 2008” and traced dog bite cases. Structured questionnaires were administered to persons who reported dog bite incident and could be traced. We reviewed records from Evangelical Churches of West Africa (ECWA) clinic from “January, 2006” to “December, 2008” to collect detailed profiles of bite victims. RESULTS: Bite victims linked to positive dog samples were traced to “ECWA clinic” from “January, 2006” to “December, 2008”. Most bite victims were <16 years 141 (72.3%), male 128 (65.6%), and 48.2% had primary school education. Bites were unprovoked 184 (94.4%), mostly on arms. 54.4% victims received complete post exposure prophylaxis (PEP). Majority of the biting dogs were housed and unvaccinated. CONCLUSION: This study provided important information on the profile of dog bite victims and highlights the need for a sustained awareness and education of children on the dangers of dog bite. It has shown lack of enforcement of regulations for licensing of dogs and rabies vaccination.