Factors associated with rabies knowledge according to Rabies Free Zone criteria in people in Public Health Region 4

Abstract

This study is a cross-sectional analytical study. from the survey of the people in Public Health Region 4 who answered the Rabies knowledge questionnaire in the Rabies 4 Free Zone information center to evaluate the area. in fiscal year 2022 (between 1 March - 30 September 2022), a total of 1,848 cases. The objective is to study the Factors associated with rabies knowledge according to Rabies Free Zone criteria in people in Public Health Region 4, data were analyzed using descriptive statistics, presenting percentages chi-square test, binary logistic regression analysis and ratio likelihood test for comparing models. The results of the study found that the top 3 highest percentages of incorrect or unknown answers were:
1) Belief that puppies under 3 months of age cannot have rabies (49.13%). 2) Misconception that individuals or animals showing rabies symptoms that cannot be treated will inevitably die (39.12%). 3) Incorrect belief that dogs typically kept by people are unlikely to have rabies (30.41%). Furthermore, the study identified factors influencing the rabies knowledge criteria. Individuals aged 10 to 19 years old were 2.12 times (OR adj = 2.12, 95%CI 1.11 - 4.04) increasing the chances of passing the knowledge criteria compared to those aged 60 years and above. Moreover, Individuals with education up to the were 3.08 times (OR adj = 3.08, 95%CI 1.31 - 7.24), lower secondary school level were 3.87 times (OR adj = 3.87, 95%CI 1.63 - 9.18), upper secondary/vocational school level were 4.12 times (OR adj = 4.12, 95%CI 1.75 - 9.67), diploma/high vocational certificate were 6.14 times (OR adj = 6.14, 95%CI 2.57 - 14.68), and bachelor's degree or higher was 8.01 times (OR adj = 8.01, 95%CI 3.37 - 19.52), increasing the chances of passing the knowledge criteria compared to the level of education below primary school.  Additionally, individuals who had received rabies knowledge within the past 6 months increased the chance of passing the knowledge criteria 1.89 times (OR adj = 1.89, 95%CI 1.51 - 2.36). The recommendations: Public health officials Should communicate to the public, such as dispelling the misconception that puppies under 3 months of age can't have rabies and addressing the notion that rabies symptoms cannot be treated and always result in fatality. Communication should be focused on the target group of the elderly and those with a level below a bachelor's degree. Promoting the dissemination of knowledge among the target population for at least 6 months is advisable. including the knowledge of rabies among the people should be surveyed periodically to adjust and enhance appropriate knowledge.