Human Rabies Postexposure Prophylaxis during a Raccoon Rabies Epizootic in New York, 1993 and 1994
Author Information
Author(s): Jeffrey D. Wyatt, William H. Barker, Nancy M. Bennett, Cathleen A. Hanlon
Primary Institution: University of Rochester School of Medicine & Dentistry
Hypothesis
What are the epidemiologic characteristics of human rabies postexposure prophylaxis (PEP) during a raccoon rabies epizootic?
Conclusion
The study found that most cases of PEP were administered due to suspected nonbite, indirect exposure to animal saliva.
Supporting Evidence
- PEP incidence increased from <1 case per 100,000 residents in 1992 to 35 cases in 1993 and 52 cases in 1994.
- Most PEP cases were due to suspected nonbite exposures, primarily from animal saliva.
- Raccoons accounted for 75% of wildlife exposures leading to PEP.
Takeaway
This study looked at how many people needed rabies treatment after being around raccoons, and it found that most people got treatment even when they weren't bitten.
Methodology
Data was collected from health department records of 1,173 persons who received rabies PEP in four counties during 1993 and 1994.
Potential Biases
Potential bias in reporting due to reliance on health department records.
Limitations
The study did not include cases that were not reported to health departments.
Participant Demographics
The mean age of participants was 29 years, with a higher incidence in males (55%) compared to females (45%).
Statistical Information
P-Value
p<0.001
Statistical Significance
p<0.001
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