Factors Associated with Risk Exposure to Human Rabies among Mammal Bite Cases in Mukah Division, Sarawak, East Malaysia

Abstract

INTRODUCTION: Rabies is a neglected disease. Before the epidemic of rabies in Sarawak in July 2017, surveillance of mammal bites was not well implemented throughout the state. Our objective was to determine the prevalence of mammal bites in the Mukah Division and the factors that are associated with the risk of exposure to human rabies. MATERIALS AND METHODS: This is a cross-sectional study that used data from reported cases of mammal bites in Mukah Division, Sarawak, from 2018–2019. A universal sampling method was used, and 457 cases of mammal bites were included in the analysis. Data was analysed using single logistic regression and multiple logistic regression. RESULTS: The prevalence of mammal bites in Mukah Division was 0.35% with a cumulative incidence of 354 per 100 000 population. Age group 0-14 years old (AOR 6.49, 95%CI 1.26-33.53), free-roaming pet (AOR 2.93, 95% 1.36-6.28) and stray mammals (AOR 10.88, 95% CI 5.05-23.48) were found to be significantly associated with risk exposure to human rabies in Mukah Division in the final model. CONCLUSION: Health awareness and education should be emphasized to the community and medical personnel on the identified risk factors so that rabies infection can be prevented.