Trends in human animal-bite cases and rabies control efforts in Iringa region, Tanzania

Animal-bites are the major cause for rabies transmission to humans. A retrospective study was conducted to determine trends in human animal-bites, spatial distribution and rabies vaccination coverage in cats and dogs in Iringa region for years between 2017 and 2021. Records of animal-bites were acquired from animal disease surveillance reports of all Iringa region districts. A total of 2,725 animal-bite human victims were recorded over the period of five years. A decreasing trend in human animal-bites incidence was recorded from 74 bites per 100,000 populations in 2017 to 32 bites per 100,000 populations in 2021. Dogs were the main cause of bites recorded (99%), and the most affected group were children aged between one and 15 years (36%). The spatial distribution of animal-bites cases indicated significant difference between district (P<0.001) with Iringa District Council accounting for 30.2%, Mufindi District Council 21%, Mafinga Town Council 20.7%, Iringa Municipal Council 18.5% and Kilolo District Council accounting for 9.6%. The mean annual vaccination coverage in dogs and cats were about 54% and 35%, respectively during the study period. The number of animal-bite cases recorded is significant to indicate potential risks of rabies transmission to human in Iringa region. Therefore, deliberate efforts should be made in Iringa region to increase vaccination coverage in both cats and dogs. Appropriate intervention measures should also be taken to prevent animal-bites with emphasis to responsible animal ownership.