A retrospective study of rabies in humans in Zimbabwe, between 1992 and 2003

Abstract

This study aimed at examining the epidemiological features of rabies in humans in Zimbabwe. The data were taken from internal reports of the department of veterinary technical services at Harare covering the period 1st January 1992-31st December 2003 inclusive. Positive cases were examined in relation to age and sex of the victim, animal vector involved, season, and land-use categories. The majority of the confirmed positive human cases (85.7%) were recorded in communal areas. The 5-19 year age group and males constituted a highly vulnerable group. Over 90% of the cases were due to dog bites with jackals (Canis adustus and C. mesomelas), and honey badgers (Mellivora capensis) also contributing to the positive cases. Rabid cats and rabid wild animals had a high relative risk (RR) of biting humans. Animal-to-human transmission was highest during the dry months of July to November.