A Retrospective Evaluation of Children With Rabies-Suspected Animal Contact

INTRODUCTION: Aim of the study was to evaluate rabies-suspected animal contact (RSAC) cases admitted to our center and determine the high-risk groups and the high-risk periods during the year. METHODS: This retrospective study was carried out at Dr. Behçet Uz Children's Hospital between December 2017 and December 2018. All children who were admited to the emergency service due to RSAC were reviewed. RESULTS: A total of 224 cases were analyzed. Of these, 140 (62.5%) were male and 84 (37.5%) were female. The mean age of the patients was 7.4+-4.7 years, and 50.9% of the patients were older than seven years. During the study period, 97.7% of the RSAC originated from domestic animals (Dogs and cats constituted 45.9% and 35.2%, respectively). Most of the admissions due to contacts were in April (32 cases, 14.3%) and in June (28 cases, 12.5%). DISCUSSION AND CONCLUSION: According to World Health Organization data, RSAC cases are seen more frequently under 15 years of age. While in developed countries, wild animal rabies are more common; in developing countries such as Turkey domestic animal rabies (especially caused by dogs) is seen more frequently. Rabies is still a public health problem in endemic areas such as our country. For this reason, we consider that is important to determine the risky periods and groups of contact and to take the necessary precautions.