AWARENESS OF RABIES IN KAFIN-HAUSA LOCAL GOVERNMENT AREA OF JIGAWA STATE

Abstract

The study was conducted to investigate awareness of rabies in Kafin –Hausa Local Government Area of Jigawa state, Nigeria. Sixty (60) respondents were randomly selected across the study area. Information was obtained using a structured questionnaire. The study area was divided into twelve wards and in each ward, 5 respondents were selected using simple random sampling technique making a total sample size of sixty respondents. Information on socioeconomic characteristics, dog management practices and rabies awareness were solicited. The data obtained were analyzed using simple descriptive statistics. Results showed that majority of the respondents were male (83.33%) of 21-30 years (45.00%), single (55.00%) with very good Arabic background (66.67%) and civil servants (58.33%). Most (83.33%) of the respondents kept dog (s) with those keeping only one dog taking the largest proportion (58.00%). Majority of the respondents kept dogs for up to five (5) years, mainly to serve as a source of security (52.00%). Most of the respondents (62.00%s) were aware of dog biting (78.00%) and believed that dog bites only when they were provoked (78.00%). Majority of the respondents have knowledge on rabies (92.00%). Rabies is popularly (36.00%) known as ‘Mahaukacin Kare’ and is transmitted via biting (62.00%). Most of the respondents (96.00%) vaccinate their dogs against rabies and they (46.00%) took victims to hospital whenever there was dog’s bite. It is concluded that anyone who receives dog bite should seek for treatment immediately and regular antirabies vaccinations for all pets and domestic animals is recommended