Trend of Animal Bites and Challenges Related to Community Health inMazandaran: A Retrospective Descriptive Study

Introduction and purpose: Rabies is a fatal viral infection transmitted through animal bites, particularly from stray dogs. Despite marked advancements in vaccination, mortality rates remain high in developing countries. Thie present study aims to assess demographic characteristics and control measures related to animal bites in Mazandaran. Methods: This retrospective descriptive study focused on patients with animal bites in Mazandaran Province. Patient data were collected from healthcare centers throughout 2022 and sent to the Health Deputy of the University of Medical Sciences. The data which included variables, such as gender, occupation, type of animal, and location of incidents, were analyzed in SPSS software (version 24). The trend of animal bites was reported based on month and county. Results: There were 5,989 recorded cases of animal bites, with 502 cases involving travelers. Reagdring gender and career, 73% of patients were male, and 36.3% had freelance occupations. The highest number of victims was in the age group of 30-39 years, with 88% of cases involving domestic animals. Dogs accounted for 83% and cats for 15.6% of the bites. Moreover, 87% of subjects were vaccinated against rabies three times, with the highest number of cases reported in June and August. The Maximum prevalence of animal bites per 100,000 persons occurred in Tonekabon. Conclusion: The increase in animal bite cases in 2022 raises serious public health concerns in Mazandaran. There is a pressing need for public education and increased awareness about the risks and how to handle animals, especially dogs, alongside appropriate and timely rabies vaccinations.