ASSESSMENT OF IMPACT OF RABIES AWARENESS PROGRAMMES IN RURAL COMMUNITIES OF JAMMU
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Date
2021-12-15
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Sher-e-Kashmir University of Agricultural Sciences & Technology, Jammu (J&K)
Abstract
Rabies is a 100 percent fatal disease and India accounts for about one-third of human rabies deaths in the world. The studies on knowledge, attitude and practices (KAP) on rabies in communities can help in targeting the control and prevention programmes. The present study assessed KAP on rabies in rural people of Jammu district, Jammu and Kashmir and the effects of intervention programmes on KAP scores. A total of 133 respondents were interviewed. All (100%) respondents have heard about the rabies and its fatal nature but voids were seen regarding transmission source, species affected, bite wound management and vaccination. Only 54 percent of the respondents were aware about animals (cats, mongoose, monkeys etc.) other than dogs as transmission source. Respondents were aware about the signs and symptoms in dogs and humans. Concerning bite wound management, only 53.3 percent acknowledged wound washing with water and soap while 78.1 percent believed that for wound management they will use traditional medicine like turmeric, kohl, chilies, etc. Around 81.9 percent acknowledged about seeking traditional healer in case of dog bite. Mean score of knowledge and attitude-practices before the intervention were 22.18 and 15.35, respectively. Awareness was imparted to same respondents via lectures, interactions and discussions. Respondents were examined again by same questionnaire. Mean scores of knowledge and attitude-practices after the intervention raised to 29.06 and 20.93, respectively. The KAP pertaining to transmission source, species affected, wound management and vaccination enhanced significantly (p ≤ 0.05). The study successfully identified the key areas to be targeted during public awareness campaign for effective rabies intervention program.