Epidemiological Study of Outpatients in Rabies Post-Exposure Prophylaxis Clinics - Tianjin Municipality, China, 2020

What is already known on this topic? Rabies remains a serious public health problem in China. The only way to prevent the fatal disease was through timely and adequate post-exposure prophylaxis (PEP). What is added by this report? Among all the 126,133 cases visited Tianjin PEP clinics during 2020, more than 90% of the patients were injured by domestic dogs or cats, and about 70% of the animals received vaccination. Most outpatients have knowledge of rabies and show high compatibility with PEP. What are the implications for public health practice? To better control rabies, we need to pay more attention to people who lack knowledge of rabies and help them gain awareness of PEP.

Automated summary

The report reveals that in 2020, over 90% of the patients visiting Tianjin PEP clinics were bitten by domestic dogs or cats, with about 70% of the animals having been vaccinated. Most outpatients have knowledge of rabies and demonstrate high compliance with PEP. To better control rabies, there is a need to focus on educating individuals lacking knowledge about rabies and raising awareness about the importance of PEP.