Community perception regarding rabies prevention and stray dog control in urban slums in India

SummaryBackgroundThe lack of community awareness about rabies control is a major issue that thwarts efforts to prevent human deaths caused by rabies.The objectives of this study were (1) to assess community knowledge and attitudes about rabies, rabies prevention and stray dog control in an urban slum community and (2) to determine the factors that influence rabies awareness in urban slums.MethodologyUsing a systematic random sampling strategy, 185 participants were selected from 8 urban slums. The data were collected by direct interview using a pre-tested, structured questionnaire.ResultsIn the study population, 74.1% of the participants had heard about rabies, and 54.1% knew that rabies is a fatal disease. Only 33.5% of the interviewees felt that people in the community had a role to play in controlling the stray dog population. Gender, age and educational status were significantly associated with rabies awareness.ConclusionsOur study indicates that there are gaps in the knowledge and attitudes of individuals living in urban slums regarding rabies prevention and control. Efforts to promote awareness should be targeted at men, older people and uneducated individuals.

► 54.1% of urban slum population is aware that rabies is a fatal disease. ► Male gender, belonging to an older age group (>25 years) and having no education are predictors of low awareness about rabies in urban slums. ► Approximately one half of the residents did not know about the correct first aid after an animal bite. ► Awareness about the rabies vaccine was reported by 42.7% of the participants. ► The role of the community in controlling the stray dog population was acknowledged by only 24.9% of the participants.