Knowledge, Attitude and Practice Study on Rabies in a Bangladesh Community

Abstract

The study was conducted from June to December 2017 to assess the knowledge, attitudes and practices (KAP) on rabies and associated risk factors among the community of Gaibandha Sadar, a northern district of Bangladesh. For this study A cross-sectional structured questionnaire was used to collect the data through face-to-face interviews among 368 respondents. Then, the data was analyzed using STATA 11. The frequency distribution of both dependent and independent variables were worked out by using descriptive statistics technique (Frequencies, mean, SD and percentage). Out of 368 respondents interviewed, 280 (76.09%) of them were males and 88 (23.91%) females. 119 (32.34%) of the respondents were in between 15 to 29; 122 (33.15%) were between 30 to 45 and 127 (34.51%) were >45 years old. The majority of the respondents 297 (80.71%) were Muslims. Almost respondents 311 (84.51%) indicated that they were aware about rabies. Association between independent variables and KAP scores on rabies was calculated using Pearson’s Chi square. There was strong association between KAP scores and age, sex and education status (p<0.05). Generally, these findings indicate that the Gaibandha Sadar community has good knowledge about rabies. However, a need for further awareness creation on the attitude and practice for appropriate prevention and treatment measure. Therefore, Veterinarians and health professionals should prepare and deliver continuous and strategic community awareness programs on prevention and control of rabies in the study area.