Demographic, temporal, and spatial analysis of human rabid animal bite cases in Mymensingh District, Bangladesh

Abstract

Objective This study aimed to analyze the demographic, temporal, and spatial characteristics of rabid animal bite (RAB) cases in humans across 12 upazilas within Mymensingh district of Bangladesh. Methods Retrospective hospital-based data from RAB cases for 2022 and 2023 were collected from S.K Hospital. The dataset included information on victim demographics, bite details, vaccination information, and Rabies Immune Globulin (RIG) administration. Additionally, monthly case counts from 2016 to 2023 were sourced and analyzed to identify trends. Descriptive statistics and time series analysis using the seasonal decomposition technique were conducted. The risk maps for rabid animal bites in 2022 and 2023 were generated using a standardized incidence rate ratio (SIRR) approach. Findings An almost two-fold increase in the proportion of category 3 bites receiving Rabies Immune Globulin (RIG) from 3.6% in 2022 to 6.5% in 2023 was noted. Only 9.7% of bite cases in 2022 and 16.9% in 2023 received the vaccine promptly after the incident. However, the majority received vaccines within the first 24 hours after being bitten. Moreover, significant seasonal patterns and year-wise increasing trends in RAB cases were observed. Males and individuals <10 years old had a higher risk of being bitten. Dogs (48.2% in 2022) and cats (52.6% in 2023) were identified as the primary animals responsible for the bites. Notably, the legs were the body part most frequently bitten. The bites risk map identified four high risk upazilas. Conclusion There is a significant gap in ensuring timely vaccination delivery. Study results also suggest other potential improvements in healthcare practices or treatment protocols. Increasing RAB cases highlights the need to enhance surveillance and control measures. Targeted awareness campaigns and preventive measures tailored to high-risk groups − including males, children <10 years old, dogs and cats − are imperative. Coordinated efforts among healthcare professionals, policymakers, and community stakeholders are crucial to effectively mitigate the incidence of RAB cases, safeguarding public health and eradicate dog mediated rabies by 2030 in the region.