Abstract

Background: Despite the importance of post-exposure prophylaxis (PEP), studies conducted in Iran on PEP showed different findings and it is not well documented yet. Objectives: The current study aimed to evaluate the delayed time of PEP and associated factors in bitten people. Materials and Methods: This cross-sectional study was conducted on 397 subjects of animal bites in Khalilabad County, Northeast of Iran, from March 2012 to March 2013. The census method was employed to use the data on animal bites recorded in the rabies treatment center (RTC). Results: Overall, 93.4 of the subjects received PEP in less than 48 hours after exposure. Of the 397 subjects, 86.0 were male, 61.7 aged0-30 years, and 64.7 lived in rural areas. The subjects were mainly bitten by domestic dogs (79.8), most of the subjects (91.9) were involved with superficial wounds, and the most common sites of the animal bite were legs (48.1) and hands (40.6). The bite incidents happened more frequently in spring (29.2) followed by summer (26.7). There was only significant difference in delayed PEP with respect to the type of biting animal (x(2) = 30.8, P < 0.001). Conclusions: The rabies PEP is well monitored in the region and its delayed time depends on the type of biting animal especially domestic dogs. Considering the high proportion of stray and domestic dogs as a public health concern in the district, the educational programs and the rabies vaccinations of dogs is recommended in the community.