Awareness of Dog Bite among People in Karachi

Abstract

Objectives:To assess the awareness, attitude and practices of people of Karachi towards dog bites. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted on a sample size of 508 patients. The sample was taken through non-probability purposive sampling from Jinnah Postgraduate Medical Centre Karachi, Dr. Ruth K. M. Pfau Civil Hospital Karachi, within a period of 8 monthsfrom March 2023 to October 2023. A structured questionnaire was distributed which was filled out. Data was analyzed using SPSS Version 22 with a 95% confidence interval, the margin of error was taken as 5%, and a P-value of 0.05 was considered significant.

Results: Patient was taken to the nearby hospital 57.3% (p=0.004) yes, while no 42.7% (p=0.004). 62.4% (p=0.006) yes to wound cleaned at the hospital, while no was 37.6% (0.006). Bleeding was severe 22.4% (p=0.04) of patients said yes and 77.6% (p=0.04) replied no.wound needs stitches 11.8% (p=0.007) said yes, while 88.2% (p=0.007) said no they did not need stitches. 3.3% (p=0.009) experienced fits of patients while 96.7% (p=0.009) did not experience any fits. 2.4% (p=0.003) of people bought prescription of any expensive injection out of pocket; while 97.6% (p=0.003) of people said no. when asked if they thought the government should control the stray dogs, 94.7% (p=0.007) of people were in favor, while 5.3% (p=0.007) of people were against the idea.

Conclusion: The study showed moderate post-bite healthcare-seeking practices among dog-bite victims, with gaps in hospital visit and wound-cleaning practices.

Keywords: Dog bite, Rabies, Complication, Management, Awareness