Abstract

UTILIZATION OF ANTIRABIES VACCINE IN PASTEUR INSTITUTE, MEGHALAYA: A THREE YEAR ASSESSMENT

*JB. Wahlang, MD. Marak, D. K. Brahma, Lalromawii, J. Lahon,
B.S. Nongkynrih

ABSTRACT

Aim: To assess the anti-rabies vaccine utilization for a period of three years Methods: A retrospective cross sectional study on dog bite cases reported in the antirabies clinic of Pasteur Institute, Shillong. The data were analyzed for utilization of vaccine in the Department of Pharmacology, NEIGRIHMS, Shillong. Result: A total of 11,324 cases were reported and none was previously immunized. Total of 10,785 (95.2%) patients belonging to Category II and III received TCARV administered intramuscularly. Ciprofloxacin/ Amoxycillin/ Cephalosporins and Paracetamol/ Ibuprofen were the most frequently used antibacterial and anti-inflammatory agents. All 10,785 number of Category II and III patients received Tetanus toxoid. Conclusion: The incidence of dog bite as observed, increased moderately each year. Prompt administration of tissue culture antirabies vaccine available in the clinic was in accordance with WHO guidelines. Lack of awareness on proper vaccination of pet animals, increase in number of stray dogs and delay in getting treatment for prevention of rabies need to be addressed from time to time.

Keywords: Rabies, WHO category, Tissue culture antirabies vaccine.