Prevalence of Dog Bite among Field Workers at a Primary Health Care Level in Goa

This study was undertaken in 121 field workers in a primary health care set up in Goa to estimate the lifetime and annual incidence dog bite, and to assess their knowledge and practices regarding post-exposure prophylaxis. The annual and lifetime incidence of dog bite was 3.3% and 22.3%, respectively. Based on the comparable figures from studies in general population, Dog-bite seems to be an occupational hazard among these workers. Only 28.9% completed the full course of anti-rabies vaccine with its cost as the major reason for discontinuation. More than 90% consulted traditional healers and wound toilet was done by 70%. The overall knowledge and practices seemed better than those reported in other studies, but continued orientation of the field workers and access to free vaccination at the workplace is of paramount importance.