RESUMO
INTRODUCTION: In order to investigate the factors predisposing to human rabies in Abobo, we conducted a study to assess the knowledge, attitudes and practices of household heads in this district. MATERIALS AND METHODS: This cross-sectional study was conducted from 13 September to 13 December 2008 and consisted of interviewing, by means of a questionnaire, household heads or their representatives at home. We randomly selected 53 households in each sub-district, with a total of 702 households for the 13 sub-districts. Informed consent was obtained from each participant prior to the interview. Data were analysed using Epi-Info 2000. RESULTS: Of the total of 152 households, 22% had a pet; 109 (71.7%) households had a dog, that was not vaccinated in 38% of cases. Furthermore, 577 (82.19%) of household heads knew about rabies and school was the source of information for 511 households (88.6%). Five hundred fifty five household heads (96.18%) did not know that the wound should be washed with soap and water immediately after exposure and 118 household heads (20.45%) reported that nothing should be done after a bite. After exposure, only 30.70% of household heads would attend a health centre 50 kilometres from home. CONCLUSION: This study shows a good level of knowledge of household heads concerning rabies. However, harmful health practices persist. Public awareness of rabies therefore needs to be reinforced.
