Rabies Postexposure Prophylaxis in Marseille, France (1994–2005)
Author Information
Author(s): Gautret Philippe, Soula Georges, Adamou Hamadou, Soavi Marie-José, Delmont Jean, Rotivel Yolande, Parola Philippe, Brouqui Philippe
Primary Institution: Hôpital Nord, Assistance Publique–Hôpitaux de Marseille, Marseille, France
Hypothesis
How has the administration of rabies postexposure prophylaxis changed since the eradication of terrestrial mammal rabies in France?
Conclusion
The study suggests that rabies postexposure prophylaxis practices in Marseille have adapted since the eradication of terrestrial mammal rabies, with a notable decrease in treatments and a recommendation for adjusting guidelines.
Supporting Evidence
- Most injuries were associated with indigenous dogs, and rabies vaccine was often overprescribed.
- The overall annual incidence of injured patients seeking care for rabies PEP was 16/100,000.
- From 2001 to 2005, the proportion of patients receiving treatment increased significantly.
- Rabies immunoglobulin was provided to only 3.2% of patients, mostly those injured by bats.
Takeaway
This study looked at how people in Marseille were treated for rabies after being bitten by animals over 11 years, showing that fewer people needed treatment after rabies was eliminated in local animals.
Methodology
Epidemiologic data on animal-related injuries and postexposure prophylaxis treatments were collected prospectively from patients at the Marseille Rabies Treatment Centre.
Potential Biases
Potential bias in reporting injuries and treatments due to reliance on patient self-reporting.
Limitations
The study is limited to data from a single center and may not represent practices in other regions.
Participant Demographics
Most patients were male (male:female ratio 1.49) with a mean age of 31.5 years; 26% were under 15 years old.
Statistical Information
P-Value
p<10–6
Statistical Significance
p<0.05
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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