IJSR International Journal of Scientific Research 2277 - 8179 Indian Society for Health and Advanced Research ijsr-8-4-18738 Original Research Paper Misconception towards a fatal disease– Rabies and its Prophylaxis P Dr. Manoj Verma Dr. Aviral Dobhal Dr. April 2019 8 4 01 02 ABSTRACT

Introduction: Rabies is an entirely preventable disease killing thousands of people in India. Information about knowledge and practices of people about animal bite can be useful for planning IEC activities. Methods: An observational study was conducted at Anti–rabies clinic of a tertiary center, from July 2014 to Jan 2015. Total 270 animal bite cases were interviewed using semi– structured questionnaire. Results: More than half respondents knew that rabies is absolutely fatal. Majority (96.6%) knew that dogs are main culprit and two third knew the importance of wound washing with soap and water. More than half (55.5%) respondents knew about availability of effective vaccine. Fifty percent washed wound with soap and water and 37.7% applied substances like chili, turmeric, mustard oil and chuna powder. Conclusion: Targeted IEC activities are needed to improve knowledge about rabies, immediate and proper wound washing, no application of irritants and control of stray dog population.