Journal of

Veterinary Research and Clinical Care

Research Article

Assessments of Knowledge Attitudes and Practices (Kap) on

Rabies Exposure in Jimma Town, South- Western Ethiopia
Moges Eriso*, Ramato Habtamu, Mekuriya and Israel Darcho

School of Veterinary Medicine, Wolaita Sodo University, Ethiopia. Corresponding Author: Moges Eriso, School of
Veterinary Medicine, Wolaita Sodo University,
Ethiopia.

Received: 2023 Nov 29 Accepted: 2023 Dec 23 Published: 2024 Jan 15

Abstract
This cross-sectional study, conducted in Jimma town between November 2017 and April 2018, aimed to evaluate the
knowledge, attitudes, and practices (KAP) regarding rabies and identify associated factors among the community of
Jimma town. The kebeles for the study were selected, and then further sampled using a systematic random sampling
method. Face-to-face interviews were conducted with 402 households using pretested and structured questionnaires.
Data analysis was performed using SPSS version 20, employing descriptive statistics techniques and Pearson›s chi-
square analysis to assess the associations between the outcome variables (KAP) and explanatory factors. Among the
384 respondents interviewed, 227 (59.1%) were males and 157 (40.9%) were females, with the majority (57.8%) falling
between the ages of 15-35 years. Nearly all participants reported previous awareness of rabies. Regarding the KAP scores,
47.6% of the study participants demonstrated a good level of knowledge. Significant associations were found between
KAP scores and gender (x2 = 52.12, p < 0.05), educational level (x2 = 14.4, p < 0.05), and occupation (x2 = 10.673, p <
0.05). Overall, these findings indicate that the community in Jimma town possesses a good level of knowledge about rabies.
However, there are gaps in accurate understanding of the mode of transmission, symptoms, and appropriate prevention
and treatment measures.
Keywords: Attitude; Community; Knowledge; Practice; Rabies.
1. Introduction health infrastructure in many rabies-endemic countries pre-
Rabies is a viral infectious disease of mammals including hu- cludes data collection and analysis. In both dog and terres-
man being characterized by the development of severe ner- trial wildlife populations, rabies has been successfully elim-
vous symptoms that lead to paralysis and death. It is also one inated from Western Europe. Thus, rabies can be controlled
of the zoonotic diseases throughout much of the world and with sufficient resources [6].
is widely known in Ethiopia. This disease is caused by rabies
virus genus Lyssavirus in the family of Rhabdoviridae. Infect- The demographic characteristics of dogs biting humans and
ed species invariably die from the disease once clinical signs livestock have not been fully elucidated. Besides, the rabies
are manifested [1]. About 98 % of the human rabies cases status of dogs biting humans has not been known. It has
occur in developing countries that possess large number of been a common practice to provide post-exposure vaccines
dogs, many of which are stray [2]. to humans bitten by dogs irrespective of their rabies status.
In Ethiopia, rabies is an endemic disease with the incidence
Dogs are the main vectors of the disease causing 94% of hu- rate of 73% [7].
man rabies through bites [3]. A vaccine-preventable disease,
most deaths from rabies arise due to lack of awareness and Unfortunately, individuals who are exposed to rabies virus
poor access to proper health service. It is estimated that most often see traditional healers for the diagnosis and treatment
of the global human population lives in canine rabies-en- of the disease. These widespread traditional practices of
demic countries and is at risk of exposure [4]. Because cases handling rabies cases are believed to interfere with timely
often go unreported, it is agreed that official records vastly seeking of post exposure prophylaxis (PEP). Rabies victims
under-estimate the true burden of rabies [5]. specially, from rural areas seek PEP treatment after exhaust-
ing the traditional medicinal intervention and usually after
It causes a severe societal and economic burden and the im- a loss of life from family members [8]. Community aware-
plications are especially apparent in poverty-stricken devel- ness about rabies is very crucial in rabies prevention and
oping countries. Shortage of resources and a limited public control. For efficiently increasing awareness, the knowledge
Volume - 2
1 Issue - 1
Citation:
Ciatation:Samuel, O.Habtamu,
Eriso, M., O., Jerry, I.T. (2023). Measurement
R., Mekuriya, M., Darcho. Of Background
(2023). Radiation
Assessments at Oracle Attitudes
of Knowledge Plastics and
andSacks Company
Practices (Kap) in
onMakurdi, Benue State.
Rabies Exposure Journal
in Jimma of
Town,
Theoretical Physics
South- Western & Mathematics
Ethiopia. Journal of Research.
Veterinary1(1), 01-07and Clinical Care. 2(1), 1-11.
Research Page
Page1 1ofof11
9
 Journal of Veterinary Research and Clinical Care Copyright © Moges Eriso

gap among the community should be identified and target- 2. Materials and Methods
ed. Community awareness of all aspects of rabies is generally 2.1. Study Area
limited, such as first aid or management of animal bites, pre- The study was conducted in Jimma town of Oromia Regional
and post-exposure prophylaxis, responsible pet dog owner- State, south-western Ethiopia. The study area, Jimma town
ship, dog population management. Regarding the immediate is located at 355km south-western of Addis Ababa. The area
measures to be carried out after a bite exposure, there is lies between a latitude of 7°41’N and longitude of 36°50’E
inadequate knowledge of the crucial need to wash wounds and has an elevation of 1704 meters above sea level. The
with soap and water and apply antiseptics and where vac- area is characterized by a humid tropical climate of heavy
cine is available [9]. annual rainfall that ranges from 1200-2000 mm per year.
About 70% of the total annual rainfall is received during
Modeling studies estimate the annual human death from rainy season, which lasts from the end of May to early Sep-
rabies to be around 50,000–60,000, with 99% of these fatal- tember. The mean annual maximum and minimum tempera-
ities occurring in tropical developing countries, overwhelm- ture ranges from 25°C-30°C and 7°C-12°C [16]. Based on the
ingly in Africa and Asia [10]. The length of incubation period 2016 Census conducted by the Central Statistical Agency of
varies and depends on several factors, including the amount Ethiopia (CSA) this Zone has a total population of 195,443, of
of virus transmitted and the location of the body where ex- whom 97,629 are men and 97,814 women. Jimma zone have
posure occurred. The proximity of the site of the virus entry an area of 50.52 square kilometers.
to the CNS increases the likelihood of a short incubation pe-
riod [11].

Following the bite of rabid animal, the incubation period

varies from 5 days to 3 months depending on the amount of
virus in the inoculums, the density of motor endplates at the
wound site and the proximity of virus entry to the central
nervous system [12]. The clinical signs include sudden be-
havioral changes, hyper salivation, paralysis, hydro and pho-
tophobia, restlessness, aggressiveness and biting inanimate
objects [13].

The administration of immediate post-exposure prophylaxis Figure 1: Geographical Map of Jimma Town
(PEP) consisting of bite wound cleansing and injection of ra-
bies vaccine and immunoglobulin’s after exposure to rabies 2.2. Study Design and Study Population
can prevent the onset of the disease. More than 15 million A cross-sectional study design employed to assess the knowl-
people require PEP annually [14]. Moreover, administration edge, attitudes and practices (KAP) on rabies and associated
of PEP alone is insufficient to interrupt the transmission cy- risk factors among the community of Jimma town. Before
cle between animals and humans. Only interventions target- the interview begun, they were briefed about the purpose
ed at the host species will eliminate rabies in the dog popu- of the study and asked for their consent. Only voluntary par-
lation and eventually stop transmission to humans. The most ticipants were involved in the study and all the information
cost-effective intervention strategy to eradicate rabies is the obtained from the study participants were kept confidential.
combination of parenteral dog mass vaccination campaigns The study population was household heads who had lived in
and PEP [15]. There is gap of accurate quantitative informa- randomly selected six kebeles of Jimma town namely Manti-
tion on rabies both in humans and in animals and little is na, Hirmata - mantina, Sexo samaro, Awetu mandara, Bossa
known about the awareness of the people about the disease keto and Bosa keto addis ketama as permanent residents.
to apply effective control measures in Ethiopia. Even if there
were reports of death of humans and animals in the study 2.3. Sample Size Determination and Sampling Tech-
area, no prior studies were undertaken about the prevalence niques
and public awareness towards rabies. Therefore, this study The required sample size for this study was estimated by
was designed to assess the level of knowledge, attitude and considering 50% of the population knowing about rabies
practices of selected communities in Jimma town on treat- since earlier there is no awareness study on rabies had been
ment, prevention and control ways of rabies. conducted in the study area. Thus, the sample size was cal-
culated according to Thrusfield formula by using 95% con-
The objectives of this study are: fidence interval and 0.05 absolute precision [17] as follow:
• To assess the level of knowledge, attitude and practices N = 1.962 P exp (1-Pexp) /d2
of selected communities in Jimma town oromia regional
state south- western Ethiopia. Where N = required sample size; P exp = Expected proportion
• To identify factors associated with community knowl- of population knowing about rabies are 50%; d2 = Desired
edge, attitude and practice (KAP) about rabies in the absolute precision (0.05). A total of 402 people were select-
study area. ed from those participants live in Jimma town from them re-
sponses of 18 respondents were rejected due to incomplete
answer. As a result, 384 respondents were selected as study
Volume - 2 Issue - 1
Ciatation: Eriso, M., Habtamu, R., Mekuriya, M., Darcho. (2023). Assessments of Knowledge Attitudes and Practices (Kap) on Rabies Exposure in Jimma Town,
South- Western Ethiopia. Journal of Veterinary Research and Clinical Care. 2(1), 1-11. Page 2 of 11
 Journal of Veterinary Research and Clinical Care Copyright © Moges Eriso

population. A simple random sampling procedure was em- Statistical Package for Social Science (SPSS) Version 20. The
ployed to select kebeles for this study. From the entire prima- descriptive statistics was used for calculating frequency and
ry sampling unit that is, seventeen kebeles six were random- percentage for both dependent and independent variables.
ly selected using lottery method. Then, 67 households were Logistic regression was used for calculating the association
selected and interviewed from each kebeles using system- between independent variables and dependent variables
atic random sampling method, as there was no significant (KAP scores) of community regarding rabies. A 95% confi-
difference in number of households. Whenever the selected dence interval and p-values were used to describe statistical
household was found locked, the next household was sub- significance associations. The association is judged as signif-
stituted automatically for interview. A pretested structured icant when p- value is less than 0.05.
questionnaire consisting of open-ended questions was used
for this study. The data were collected via face-to-face inter- 3. Results
view. The questionnaire was first developed in English and 3.1. Socio-Demographic Characteristics
then translated in to Amharic language for appropriateness A total of 384 respondents were responded to the question-
and easiness in approaching the study participants. er which yields a response rate of 95.9%. More participants
227(59.1%) of the interviewed were males. Regarding age
2.4. Inclusion and Exclusion Criteria group, 222(57.8%) of the study participants were between
Household who lives permanently at resident in the study 15-35 years old. The majority of the respondents were Or-
area were included in this study and respondents in the thodox 212(55.2%) followed by Muslim and Catholics and
household who cannot communicate and less than 15 years Protestants, 86 (22.4%). Concerning educational status of
were excluded from this study. The participants more than the participants where higher education was 113 (29.4%)
15 years were involved during the time of interview per- followed by primary school 103 (26.8%) and the remaining
formed. 62(16.1%) and 21(5.5%) were illiterate not write and read
and able to read and write (who ceases learning) respec-
2.5. Data Management and Analysis tively. Regarding occupation of the respondents were other
The data collected from questionnaire survey were cleaned workers 183 (47.7%) and merchants 95 (24.7%) followed by
and checked for its completeness and entered into Microsoft government employees 63 (16.4%). table1, summarizes the
excel 2007 spread sheet then coded and analyzed using the Socio-demographic information of the study participants.

Table 1: Socio Demographic Information of Participants in Jimma Town During 2017 to 2018.

Variables Category Frequency Percent

Sex Male 227 59.1
Female 157 40.9
Age in year 15-35 222 57.8
36-55 110 28.6
56-75 52 13.5
>75 0 0
Educational status Illiterate not write and read 62 16.1
Able to read and write 21 5.5
Primary school 103 26.8
Secondary school 85 22.1
Higher education 113 29.4
Religion Christian orthodox 212 55.2
Muslim 86 22.4
Others(protestant, Catholics) 86 22.4
Occupation Governmental employee 63 16.4
Merchant 95 24.7
Farmer 3 0.8
Unemployed 40 10.4
Others 183 47.7

Volume - 2 Issue - 1
Ciatation: Eriso, M., Habtamu, R., Mekuriya, M., Darcho. (2023). Assessments of Knowledge Attitudes and Practices (Kap) on Rabies Exposure in Jimma Town,
South- Western Ethiopia. Journal of Veterinary Research and Clinical Care. 2(1), 1-11. Page 3 of 11
 Journal of Veterinary Research and Clinical Care Copyright © Moges Eriso

3.2. Knowledge of Respondents in Relation to Cause, 35(9.1%) of them believe as any type of scratch of rabid an-
Host Range, Clinical Sign and Transmission of Rabies imal can transmit the virus to human. Furthermore, rabid
In this study all 384(100%) participants had heard about animal respiration was replied by 31 (8.1%) of the partici-
rabies from different sources. It is called ‘sare marete’ lo- pants as a means of transmission. The body parts of animal
cally which means madness of dog. However, 285(74.2%) and human beings that affected by rabies replied by par-
of respondent replied that bacteria as the causative agent ticipants was 165(43%), brain, 11 (2.9%), bitten area and
of rabies. Moreover, most of the respondents 339(88.3%) 199(51.8%) doesn’t knew which parts affected by this dis-
mentioned as rabies can affect human and other domestic ease. Regarding susceptibility of the host dog, 285(74.2%),
animals regarding common source of rabies, dog was re- cat, 54(14.1%), human, 29(7.6%), equine, 9(2.3%) and wild
sponded by 251(65.4%) of the participants. 339 (88.3%) animals, 3(0.8%) respectively was responded by partici-
participants knew the transmission of rabies from animal pants. Knowledge of respondents in relation to cause, host
to human. But only 218 (56.8%) knew rabies transmission range, clinical sign and transmission of rabies are summa-
by bite, 59(15.4%) saliva contact with open wound and rized in (table 2).

Table 2: Knowledge of Participants Related to Cause Host Range, Mode of Transmission of Rabies in Jimma Town
During 2017 to 2018.

Variables Category Frequency Percent

Awareness on rabies Yes 384 100
No 0 0
I don’t know rabies 0 0
Part of the body affected Brian 165 43.0
Stomach 9 2.3
Bitten area 11 2.9
I don’t know 199 51.8
Cause of rabies Bacteria 285 74.2
Virus 64 16.7
Protozoa 2 0.5
I don’t know 249 64.8
Most susceptible host Dog 285 74.2
Cat 54 14.1
Equine 9 2.3
Bovine 4 1.0
Wild animals 3 0.8
Human 29 7.6
Transmitted from animal to Yes 339 88.3
human No 10 2.6
I don’t know 35 9.1
Mode of transmission from Biting 218 56.8
animal to human Saliva contact into open wound 59 15.4
Inhalation 31 8.1
Scratch 35 9.1
I don’t know 41 10.7
Most common source of Dog 251 65.4
rabies Bovine 2 0.5
Cat 33 8.6
Equine 0 0
Wild animals 71 18.5
I don’t know 27 7.0

Volume - 2 Issue - 1
Ciatation: Eriso, M., Habtamu, R., Mekuriya, M., Darcho. (2023). Assessments of Knowledge Attitudes and Practices (Kap) on Rabies Exposure in Jimma Town,
South- Western Ethiopia. Journal of Veterinary Research and Clinical Care. 2(1), 1-11. Page 4 of 11
 Journal of Veterinary Research and Clinical Care Copyright © Moges Eriso

3.3. Knowledge of Participants Related to Clinical Signs in infected human. While 23(6%) of respondents were men-
and Fatal Nature of Rabies tioned that paralysis is one of the symptoms. Concerning to
Out of 384 participants 259(67.4%) answered that rabies is risk groups for rabies 79(20.6%), 24(6.3%), 22(5.7%) and
a dangerous and fatal disease. About 41(10.7%), 21(5.5%), 8(2.1%) were young, female, adult followed by male respec-
17(4.4%) and 4(1%) of respondents were identified that tively. 251(65.4%) of respondents considered rabies affects
sudden behavioral change, aggressiveness, hyper salivation all without restriction of sex and age groups. From total par-
and water phobia is sign of rabies in an infected animal re- ticipants 231(60.2%), responded as rabies easily treated
spectively. But 301(78.4%) respondent’s repeals that ani- after onset of clinical signs and 74(19.3%) not knew it was
mals infected by these disease shows all the signs at one time. treated or not. Out of total respondents 79(20.6%) knew
In the case of human being about 131(34.1%), 111(28.9%) as rabies is not easily treatable after onset of clinical signs.
and 76(19.8%), of participants were observed madness, Knowledge of participants related to clinical signs and fatal
puppy movements and hallucination respectively are signs nature of rabies are summarized in (table 3).

Table 3: Knowledge of Participants Related to Clinical Signs and Fatal Nature of Rabies in Jimma Town, During 2017
to 2018.

Variables Category Frequency Percent

Clinical signs in animal Sudden behavioral change 41 10.7
Hyper salivation 17 4.4
Aggression 21 5.5
Water phobia 4 1.0
Paralysis 0 0
All 301 78.4
Clinical sign in human Madness 131 34.1
Water and light phobia 43 11.2
Paralysis 23 6.0
Puppy movement 111 28.9
Hallucination 76 19.8
Fate of person bitten by He/she will die 259 67.4
rabid animals Remain sick 59 15.4
Nothing happen 19 4.9
I don’t know 47 12.2
Group of population at risk Young 79 20.6
Adult 22 5.7
Male 8 2.1
Female 24 6.3
All 251 65.4
Easily treated after onset of Yes 231 60.2
clinical sign No 79 20.6
I don’t know 74 19.3

3.4. Practices and Attitudes to Prevent Rabies After Sus- be medicine for rabies and 87(22.7%) believed that only an-
pected Animal/Dog Bite imal bite need vaccination. 171(44.5%) of the respondent
From the respondents 85(22.1%) washed the bitten wound believed that post exposure prophylaxis can prevent rabies
with water and soap immediately, 177(46.1%) seek health development. 137(35.7%) supports traditional healers as
center, 95(24.7%) had positive attitude for traditional healer, solution for rabies. Practices and attitudes to prevent rabies
46(12%) and 30(7.8%) were aware of eating roasted meat after suspected animal /dog bite are summarized in (table
of animal died of rabies and burning and inhalation could 4).

Volume - 2 Issue - 1
Ciatation: Eriso, M., Habtamu, R., Mekuriya, M., Darcho. (2023). Assessments of Knowledge Attitudes and Practices (Kap) on Rabies Exposure in Jimma Town,
South- Western Ethiopia. Journal of Veterinary Research and Clinical Care. 2(1), 1-11. Page 5 of 11
 Journal of Veterinary Research and Clinical Care Copyright © Moges Eriso

Table 4: Practices and Attitudes to Prevent Rabies After Suspected Animal /Dog Bite in Jimma Town, During 2017
to 2018.
Variables Category Frequency Percent
Traditional healers couldn’t I agree 146 38.0
be solution I disagree 137 35.7
Not sure 101 26.3
Eating of roasted meat of I agree 46 12.0
animals died of rabies I disagree 203 52.9
Not sure 135 35.2
Immediate action after bit- Washing with water and 85 22.1
ten by rabid animals soap
Visit health institution for 177 46.1
treatment
Use traditional healer 95 24.7
Do nothing 0 0
Burning and inhalation of I don’t know 27 7.0
rabid animals I. Agree 30 7.8
I. Disagree 200 52.1
Not sure 154 40.1
Post exposure prophylaxis Yes 171 44.5
prevent disease develop- No 85 22.1
ment
I don’t know 128 33.3
What kind of exposure need Animal bite 87 22.7
vaccination Animal lick 36 9.4
Animal scratch 18 4.7
Others (touch ,contact etc) 46 12.0
3.5. Practices and Attitudes to Prevent and Control Ra- originated ant rabies vaccine. 81(21.1%), 76(19.8%) and
bies Risk Factors 17(4.4%) vaccinated their pet animals against rabies by
From total participants 246(64.1%) had pet animals among government, para-veterinarian and private veterinarians
them 99(25.8%) had vaccinated their pet animals and respectively. Out of pet owner participants 104(27.1%) al-
138(35.6%) not vaccinated their pet animals. The attitude ways contact with their pet animals during providing feed
on ant rabies vaccine was positive by 320(83.3%) of the re- and 115(29.9%) sometimes. 37(9.6%) of participants cas-
spondents and negative for 64(16.7%). Killing was the first trated their own pet animals and 209(54.4%) not. From par-
option of 171 (44.5%) of the participants to control stray dog ticipants that have pet animals 29(7.6%) knew castration
followed by creating awareness on the owner of pet animals. decrease the incidence of rabies and 214(55.7%) not knew.
21(5.5%) vaccinated their pet animals by local vaccine and Practices and attitudes to prevent and control rabies risk fac-
6(1.6%) by imported the others 76(19.8%) by unknown tors are summarized in (table 5).

Volume - 2 Issue - 1
Ciatation: Eriso, M., Habtamu, R., Mekuriya, M., Darcho. (2023). Assessments of Knowledge Attitudes and Practices (Kap) on Rabies Exposure in Jimma Town,
South- Western Ethiopia. Journal of Veterinary Research and Clinical Care. 2(1), 1-11. Page 6 of 11
 Journal of Veterinary Research and Clinical Care Copyright © Moges Eriso

Table 5: Practices and attitudes to prevent and control rabies risk factors in Jimma town, during 2017 to 2018.

Category Frequency Percent

Do you have pets Yes 246 64.1
No 138 35.6
Do you vaccinated your pets Yes 99 25.8
No 157 40.9
Attitudes towards rabies Positive 320 83.3
vaccine Negative 64 16.7
Which product /type vacci- Local vaccine 21 5.5
nated against rabies Imported vaccine 6 1.6
I don’t know the origin of 76 19.8
vaccine
Who vaccinate your pet Government 81 21.1
Private veterinarian 17 4.4
Para-veterinarian 76 19.8
Frequency of contact with Always 104 27.1
your pets Sometimes 115 29.9
Never 24 6.3
Was your pet castrated / Yes 37 9.6
spayed No 209 54.4
Does castration decrease Yes 29 7.6
incidence No 214 55.7
Measures to control stray Killing 171 44.5
dogs Animal birth control 89 23.2
Aware the owner 124 32.3

3.6. Factors Associated with Community KAP on Rabies KAP and less than the mean value grouped to poor KAP lev-
in Jimma Town el. The data tells that about 47.6% of the study participants
Thirty-two questions were asked for each respondent re- were found to have good KAP about rabies and 52.4% were
garding cause, sources and mode of transmissions, clinical found to have poor KAP level. Association between indepen-
sings and prevention practices and treatment measures of dent variables and KAP scores on rabies was calculated us-
rabies which was resulted in a response of either, choose the ing Pearson’s Chi square. There was significant association
correct answer had got one mark or wrong answer had got between KAP scores and sex (x2=52.12, p=0.000). The good
zero mark for each question. The number of questions for KAP scores were recorded higher in males 164 (72.2%) than
which the respondent gave correct responses was counted females 114(66.2%). Educational status had significantly
and scored. This score was then pooled together and the associated with KAP scores (x2=14.4, p =0.002). All respon-
mean score was computed to determine the overall KAP of dents with higher education levels had good knowledge, at-
respondents. Respondents who score greater than or equal titude and practice of rabies (table 6).
to the mean value (Mean=12.67, SD=4.56) grouped to good

Volume - 2 Issue - 1
Ciatation: Eriso, M., Habtamu, R., Mekuriya, M., Darcho. (2023). Assessments of Knowledge Attitudes and Practices (Kap) on Rabies Exposure in Jimma Town,
South- Western Ethiopia. Journal of Veterinary Research and Clinical Care. 2(1), 1-11. Page 7 of 11
 Journal of Veterinary Research and Clinical Care Copyright © Moges Eriso

Table 6: Factors Associated with Community KAP on Rabies in Jimma town during, 2017 to 2018.

Variable No. of per- No. of personnel No. of person x2 p- value

sonnel with Good KAP with Poor KAP
Sex Male 227 164(72.2%) 63(16.7%) 52.12 0.000
Female 157 114(66.2%) 43(14.6%)
Age in year 15-35 189 142(64.0%) 47(21.2%) 11.98 0.017
36-55 110 85(77.3%) 35(11.3%)
56-75 65 41(78.8%) 24(7.7%)
Educational Illiterate not write 62 46(74.2%) 16(9.7%) 14.4 0.002
status and read
Able to read and 21 15(71.4%) 6(10.8%)
write
Primary school 103 65(63.1%) 38(16.5%)
Secondary school 85 60(76.55%) 25(4.7%)
Higher education 113 77(68.1%) 36(15%)
Occupation Governmental em- 63 51(81%) 12(4.8%) 10.673 0.0221
ployee
Merchant 95 63(66.3%) 32(13.7%)
Farmer 3 2(100%) 1(0.05%)
Unemployed 40 23(65%) 17(12.5%)
Others 183 125(69.7%) 68(15.3%)
Religion Christian orthodox 212 126(66%) 86(16%) 14 0.373
Muslim 86 56(72.1%) 30(11.6%)
Others(protestant, 86 60(69.8%) 26(14.3%)
Catholics etc)

4. Discussion responded. This KAP analysis revealed that 259(67.4%)

The result of current study revealed that rabies is an import- of respondents recognize rabies as danger and a fatal dis-
ant disease of both human and animals in the study area. All ease, 249(74.2%) know that dogs are most susceptible to
respondents in this study (100%) had heard about rabies rabies and 251(65.4%) aware that dogs are the most com-
from different sources. In line with this finding several schol- mon source of rabies.This result is almost consistent with
ars from different area of Ethiopia (13; 48) and from the oth- study conducted in the city of New York, USA, reported that
er country reported almost similar findings [18]. Of those 94.1% of the study participants know rabies as a killer dis-
respondents, 34.9% had misunderstanding on the cause of ease and 73.5% of the respondents identified that dogs are
rabies. This result is lower when compared with the result major sources for the spread of rabies in human population
obtained from study conducted in Gondar and Dabat indi- [23]. In this study, majority of the respondents 251(65.4%)
cated that most of respondents believe that the disease in know that rabies can affect all group of population. In cur-
dogs is caused by starvation; thirst and prolonged exposure rent study about 301(78.4%) of the respondents were aware
to sun heat [19]. This could be due to study area and commu- of common clinical signs of rabies in animals.
nity awareness difference. In the current study 339(88.3%)
of participants knew the transmission of rabies from animal This finding is supported by study which is done in Bahir
to human. This finding was agreed with the result of [20]. Dar. In my current study 85(22.1%) of the respondents know
However, reported a lower result 21.4% from Bahir Dar that wound washing is immediate action after dog bite [24].
town and 71.9% was also reported in the city of New York, This result is lower than studies done in Bhutan with ma-
USA [21, 22]. The possible reason for this could be due to the jority of respondents were aware that animal bite wounds
availability of different host range, level of awareness and should be washed with soap and water [25]. This differ-
educational status of community. Despite good knowledge of ence might be due to respondents believed that the infec-
rabies transmission from animal to human, only 218(56.8) tion could be treated with herbs and traditional healer. The
knew rabies transmission by bite and 59(15.4%) saliva con- preference for traditional treatment recorded in this study
tact with open wound and 35(9.1%) of them believe as any was low 95(24.7%) when compared to study conducted in
type of scratch can transmit the virus to human. Another Gondar zuria district, Ethiopia, which reported 62.2% pref-
important misunderstanding regarding rabies transmission erence for traditional medicine and study in Debark district
was rabid animal respiration as 31(8.1%) of the participants which reported 54.8 preference for traditional medicine [26,

Volume - 2 Issue - 1
Ciatation: Eriso, M., Habtamu, R., Mekuriya, M., Darcho. (2023). Assessments of Knowledge Attitudes and Practices (Kap) on Rabies Exposure in Jimma Town,
South- Western Ethiopia. Journal of Veterinary Research and Clinical Care. 2(1), 1-11. Page 8 of 11
 Journal of Veterinary Research and Clinical Care Copyright © Moges Eriso

27]. Furthermore, a higher (84%) reliance of respondents prepare and deliver continuous and strategic community
on traditional treatment was also reported from Dabat and awareness programs on prevention and control of rabies in
Gondar [28]. The preference for traditional practices might the study area.
be arise from many factors including easy access to tradi- • Veterinary and medical practitioners should report all
tional medicine, lack of awareness, lack of capital for treat- suspected cases of rabies and take appropriate post-ex-
ment and long duration of treatment. Reliance on traditional posure measures.
medicines with unproven efficacy is very risky and nothing • Local government and public health authorities that
can be done to save one’s life after the first symptoms of the may assist in rabies control measures during rabies out-
disease occur. The World Health Organization (WHO) also break should have to be properly briefed.
recommends wound washing and vaccination immediately • The public should be kept informed on the public health
after contact with a suspected rabid animal which can pre- aspects of rabies, the requirements related to the control
vent almost 100% of rabies deaths [29]. In the current study and eradication campaign including the reporting of an-
the overall knowledge, attitude and practice (KAP) study re- imal bite cases.
vealed that 47.6% of participants had a good KAP, whereas • Governmental organizations like Federal Ministry of
52.4% was found to have poor KAP score. This finding is low- Health, Federal Ministry of Agriculture and livestock
er when compared with Study by who reported about 64.1% resource and Jimma University should work in coopera-
among the community of Bahir Dar town and who reported tion with information sources to give information which
60.3% in Debark District, North Gondar [30, 31]. This differ- will enhance the awareness level of the community.
ence could be due to his difference in sample size and lev- • The Oromia agriculture and livestock resource Bureau
el of awareness of community. Logistic regression analysis should register the dog population of the region and pre-
revealed higher good KAP score to be significantly associat- pare a legislation that will enforce the owners to vacci-
ed with sex in which higher good score was found in male nate their animals.
164(72.2%) than female 114(66.2%). Males were about
(6%) times more likely to have higher good KAP score than References
females. This difference might be due to increased activity 1. Abbas, S. S., Venkataramanan, V., Pathak, G., & Kakkar, M.
of males in their daily life compared with females and better (2011). Rabies control initiative in Tamil Nadu, India:
chance of acquiring correct information about rabies. In this a test case for the ‘One Health’approach. International
study the good KAP scores were highest in age group of 15- Health, 3(4), 231-239.
35, 142(64%) among other age groups of 36 – 55, 85(77.3%) 2. Knobel, D. L., Cleaveland, S., Coleman, P. G., Fèvre, E. M.,
and, 56-75, 41 (78.8%). The statistically significant differ- Meltzer, M. I., et al. (2005). Re-evaluating the burden of
ence (P=0.017) in KAP score among age groups might be rabies in Africa and Asia. Bulletin of the World health Or-
due to increased reading capacity and egger to search new ganization, 83, 360-368.
thing as being student about rabies. The other factor that 3. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (2002): Hu-
compared with age groups and better chance of acquiring man rabies, Morb. Mortal. Wkly. Rep. 52:47-48.
identified to be significantly associated with knowledge on 4. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (2009): Hu-
rabies was educational status. Statistically significant asso- man rabies prevention in United States, recommenda-
ciation (P=0.02) was observed between KAP score and ed- tions of the Advisory Committee on Immunization Prac-
ucational levels where by higher levels of educations were tices. Morb. Mortal. Wkly. Rep. 48:121.
associated with higher knowledge scores. All respondents in 5. Cynthia, M. and Kahn, B. (2010): Merck Vet. Mann.
higher education levels had good KAP of rabies. The possible 10th ed. Kandallville, Indiana. Courier Kenadaville. Inc.
explanation could be educated person would have better in- Pp:1193-2010.
formation access and can easily understand the disease. This 6. Deressa, A., Ali, A., Bayene, M., Selassie, B. N., Yimer, E., et
result is also supported by the result of the studies conduct- al. (2010). The status of rabies in Ethiopia: A retrospec-
ed in Bahir Dar [32]. tive record review. Ethiopian Journal of Health Develop-
ment, 24(2).
5. Conclusion and Recommendations 7. Digafe, R. T., Kifelew, L. G., & Mechesso, A. F. (2015).
This study indicated that rabies was a well-known disease in Knowledge, attitudes and practices towards rabies:
the study area. The KAP level towards to rabies of the com- questionnaire survey in rural household heads of Gond-
munity of Jimma town found good. But still there are some ar Zuria District, Ethiopia. BMC research notes, 8(1), 1-7.
gaps in the community concerning with cause and mode of 8. Ray, C. G., & Ryan, K. J. (Eds.). (2014). Sherris medical
transmission, host range of the disease, clinical signs of ra- microbiology (pp. 579-583). New York, NY, USA: Mc-
bies, prevention methods after suspected animal bite and Graw-Hill Education/Medical.
attitude to anti-rabies vaccine. 9. Eidson, M., Schmit, K., Keegan, M., Trimarchi, C. V.,
Tserenpuntsag, B., & Willsey, A. (2004). Development
Therefore, based on the above conclusion the following rec- and evaluation of bat rabies education materials. Evi-
ommendations are forwarded: dence-Based Preventive Medicine, 1(2), 85-91.
• Strict control of free-ranging dogs and mandatory 10. Eshetu, Y., Arthuro, M., Mekoro, B., Abebe, B., Girum, T., et
rabies vaccination should be enforced and establishing na- al. (2012). Study on knowledge, attitude and dog own-
tional animal rabies surveillance network is imperative. ership patterns related to rabies prevention and control
• Veterinarians and health professionals should in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia. Ethiopian Veterinary Journal,
Volume - 2 Issue - 1
Ciatation: Eriso, M., Habtamu, R., Mekuriya, M., Darcho. (2023). Assessments of Knowledge Attitudes and Practices (Kap) on Rabies Exposure in Jimma Town,
South- Western Ethiopia. Journal of Veterinary Research and Clinical Care. 2(1), 1-11. Page 9 of 11
 Journal of Veterinary Research and Clinical Care Copyright © Moges Eriso

16(2), 27-39. Transmitted by Dogs in the South-East Asia Region. Ge-

11. Finke, S., & Conzelmann, K. K. (2005). Replication strate- neva, Switzerland: WHO.
gies of rabies virus. Virus research, 111(2), 120-131. 29. Jemberu, W. T., Molla, W., Almaw, G., & Alemu, S. (2013).
12. Fooks, A. R. (2007). Rabies—the need for a ‘one medi- Incidence of rabies in humans and domestic animals
cine’approach. Veterinary Record, 161(9), 289-290. and people’s awareness in North Gondar Zone, Ethiopia.
13. Guadu, T., Shite, A., Chanie, M., Bogale, B., & Fentahun, PLoS neglected tropical diseases, 7(5), e2216.
T. (2014). Assessment of knowledge, attitude and prac- 30. Yalemebrat, N., Bekele, T., & Melaku, M. (2016). Assess-
tices about rabies and associated factors: in the case of ment of public knowledge, attitude and practices to-
Bahir Dar town. Global Veterinaria, 13(3), 348-54. wards rabies in Debark Woreda, North Gondar, Ethio-
14. Hampson, K., Coudeville, L., Lembo, T., Sambo, M., Kief- pia. Journal of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Health,
fer, A., et al. Global Alliance for Rabies Control Partners 8(11), 183-192.
for Rabies Prevention. (2015). Estimating the global 31. Yin, C. P., Zhou, H., Wu, H., Tao, X. Y., Rayner, S., W et al.
burden of endemic canine rabies. PLoS neglected trop- (2012). Analysis on factors related to rabies epidemic in
ical diseases, 9(4), e0003709. China from 2007–2011. Virologica Sinica, 27, 132-143.
15. Hemachudha, T., Ugolini, G., Wacharapluesadee, S., Sung- 32. Zinsstag, J., Dürr, S., Penny, M. A., Mindekem, R., Roth,
karat, W., Shuangshoti, S., et al. (2013). Human rabies: F., et al. (2009). Transmission dynamics and econom-
neuropathogenesis, diagnosis, and management. The ics of rabies control in dogs and humans in an African
Lancet Neurology, 12(5), 498-513. city. Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences,
16. Hosmer Jr, D. W., Lemeshow, S., & Sturdivant, R. X. (2013). 106(35), 14996-15001.
Applied logistic regression (Vol. 398). John Wiley & Sons.
17. Jackson, A.C. (2003): Rabies. Current Treatment Options 6. Annexis
of Infectious Disease.5: 35-40. Questionnaire For Assessments of Knowledge, Attitudes and
18. Jemberu, W. T., Molla, W., Almaw, G., & Alemu, S. (2013). Practices (Kap) On Rabies Exposure in Jimma Town, South
Incidence of rabies in humans and domestic animals Western Ethiopia.
and people’s awareness in North Gondar Zone, Ethiopia.
PLoS neglected tropical diseases, 7(5), e2216. Instruction: Please encircle the right information about you.
19. Nottidge, H. O. (2005). Rabies-The Ancient Scourge. In- Questions include in Knowledge, Attitudes and Practices
augural Lecture, University of Ibadan, Nigeria, 39. (KAP) in Jimma town to assess (1) knowledge of rabies, its
20. OPEDJZ. (Office of Planning and Economic Development transmission and outcome, species affected, and means of
for Jimma Zone) (2002): Statistical Abstract. Jimma, prevention and control; and (2) attitudes and practices to-
Oromia, Ethiopia. wards rabies prevention, and suspect rabid animals and car-
21. Radostits, O. M., & Gay, C. C. (2000). Blood DC, Hinchcliff casses.
KW. Veterinary medicine. A text book of the diseases
of cattle, sheep, pigs and horses. 9th ed. WB. Saunders Part One: Demography of Respondent
Company Ltd. Edinburgh London New York Oxford Phil- Q1. Respondent’s residential address (Kebele):
adelphia St Louis Sydney Toronto, 1310-1314. __________________________
22. Singh, U. S., & Choudhary, S. K. (2005). Knowledge, atti- Q2. Sex of respondent 1) Male 2) Female
tude, behavior and practice study on dog-bites and its Q3. Age group of participants 1)15-35years 2) 36-55years 3)
management in the context of prevention of rabies in a 56-75years4) greater than 75years
rural community of Gujarat. Indian journal of communi- Q4. Educational status 1) Illiterate not write and read 2) able
ty medicine, 30(3), 81-83. to read and write 3) Primary school 4) Secondary school5)
23. Guadu, T., Shite, A., Chanie, M., Bogale, B., & Fentahun, Higher education
T. (2014). Assessment of knowledge, attitude and prac- Q5. Religion 1) Christian Orthodox 2) Muslim 3) Others
tices about rabies and associated factors: in the case of (Protestants, Catholics)
Bahir Dar town. Global Veterinaria, 13(3), 348-54. Q6. What occupation do you have? 1) Government employee
24. Dhand, N. K., Rai, B. D., Tenzin, S., Tsheten, K., Ugyen, P., et 2) merchant 3) farmer 4) unemployed 5) Others
al. (2012). Community-based study on knowledge, atti-
tudes and perception of rabies in Gelephu, south-central Part Two: Knowledge on Rabies Cause, Host Range and
Bhutan. International health, 4(3), 210-219. Mode of Transmssion.
25. Tenzin, Dhand, N. K., Gyeltshen, T., Firestone, S., Zangmo, Q7. Do you have awareness on rabies? 1) Yes 2) no 3) I do not
C., Dema, C., et al. (2011). Dog bites in humans and es- know rabies
timating human rabies mortality in rabies endemic ar- Q8. Which part of the body affected with rabies? 1) Brian 2)
eas of Bhutan. PLoS neglected tropical diseases, 5(11), Stomach3) bitten area 4) I don’t know
e1391. Q9. Do you know the cause of rabies? 1) Bacteria 2) virus3)
26. Thrusfield, M. (2018). Veterinary epidemiology. John Protozoa 4) I don’t know
Wiley & Sons. Q10. Which was most susceptible host for rabies? 1) Dog 2)
27. Expert, C. (2010). WHO Expert Consultation on rabies. Cat 3) Human 4) Equine 5) Bovine
Weekly Epidemiological Record, 85, 309-320. 6) Wild animal
28. Asia, W. H. O. (2012). Regional Office for South-East Asia. Q11. Is rabies transmitted from animal to human? 1) Yes 2)
Strategic Framework for Elimination of Human Rabies no 3) I do not know
Volume - 2 Issue - 1
Ciatation: Eriso, M., Habtamu, R., Mekuriya, M., Darcho. (2023). Assessments of Knowledge Attitudes and Practices (Kap) on Rabies Exposure in Jimma Town,
South- Western Ethiopia. Journal of Veterinary Research and Clinical Care. 2(1), 1-11. Page 10 of 11
 Journal of Veterinary Research and Clinical Care Copyright © Moges Eriso

Q12. What is the mode of transmission from rabid animal to tion for treatment 3) Use traditional healer 4) Do nothing 5)
another animal or human? I don’t know
1) By biting 2) By saliva contact into open wound 3) By inha- Q22. Burning the rabid animal and inhalation of the smoke
lation 4) By scratch 3) I do not know could be medicine for rabies.
Q13. What is the most common source of rabies? 1) Dog2) 1) I agree 2) I disagree 3) Not sure
Bovine3) Cat 4) Equine 5) Wild animals 6) I do not know Q23. Do you know post exposure prophylaxis can prevent
disease development?
Part Three: Knowledge Related to Clinical Signs and 1) Yes 2) No 3) I don’t know
Fatal Nature of Rabies and Prevention After Bite of Sus- Q24. Which kind of exposure needs vaccination? 1) Animal
pected Animals. bite 2) Animal lick 3) Animal scratch 4) Other (touching and/
Q14. What is the clinical sign in animals? 1) Sudden behav- or keeping dog)
ioral change2) Hyper salivation
3) Aggression 4) Water phobia 5) Paralysis 6) All Part Four: Risk Factors, Prevention and Control
Q15. What is the clinical sign in human? 1) Madness 2) Water Q25. Do you have pets (cat/dog)? 1) Yes 2) No
and light phobia 3) Paralysis Q26. If your answer is “yes” for Q25, are your pets vaccinat-
4) Puppy movement in stomach 5) Hallucination ed? 1) Yes 2) No
Q16.What is the fate of person bitten by rabid animal? 1) He Q27. What is your attitude to rabies vaccine in animals? 1)
or She will die 2) He or she remain sick 3) Nothing happen Positive 2) Negative
4) I do not know Q27. If your pets are vaccinated against rabies, then which
Q17. Which group of population is at high risk? 1) Young 2) product is used? 1) Local vaccine 2) imported vaccine 3) I do
Adult 3) Male 4) Female 5) All not know the origin of vaccine
Q18. Is rabies easily treated after onset of clinical sign? 1) Q28. Who vaccinates your pets? 1) Government 2) private
yes2) no 3) I do not know veterinarian 3) para-veterinarian
Q19. Traditional healer couldn’t be a solution of rabies? 1) I Q29. How frequent is your contact with pets? 1) Always 2)
agree 2) I disagree 3) Not sure sometimes 3) never
Q20. Eating roasted meat of animal died of rabies could be Q30. Was your dog castrated/spayed? 1) Yes 2) No
medicine for rabies? 1) I agree 2) I disagree 3) Not sure Q31. Does castration decrease incidence? 1) Yes 2) No
Q21. What is the immediate action after bitten by rabid ani- Q32. Measures to control stray dogs 1) Killing 2) Animal
mal? 1) Washing with water and soap 2) Visit health institu- birth control 3) Aware the owner

Volume - 2 Issue - 1
Ciatation: Eriso, M., Habtamu, R., Mekuriya, M., Darcho. (2023). Assessments of Knowledge Attitudes and Practices (Kap) on Rabies Exposure in Jimma Town,
South- Western Ethiopia. Journal of Veterinary Research and Clinical Care. 2(1), 1-11. Page 11 of 11