Development of a Participatory Network-Driven Operational Model for Rabies-Free Districts in Subdistricts within Andaman Coastal Tourism Areas, Health District 11

Abstract

This research and development study aimed to examine the current situation, problems, and needs, so to develop a participatory network-driven model for achieving rabies-free districts in the Andaman coastal tourism areas of Health Region 11. The study was conducted in three phases. First, the situational context, problems, and needs for rabies-free district were assessed through a document analysis, a questionnaire survey of 354 personnel, and in-depth interviews with 15 participants per district across five districts. Second, the model was developed and validated by three experts. Third, the effectiveness of the model was evaluated using a one-group pretest–posttest quasi-experimental design with 135 participants involved. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics and   Wilcoxon signed ranks test. results were as follows.

1. During fiscal years 2022 – 2024, the number of vaccinations and sterilizations among dogs and cats increased, while the number of animals tested for rabies decreased. Key needs for implementation included the use of technology (e.g., GPS) for outbreak monitoring. Major challenges were the increasing population of stray animals and the lack of appropriate animal shelters. There was also a need for government-supported, sustainable shelter facilities and improved regulatory frameworks.

2. The developed model, named the KRABI Model, consists of five components: Establishing surveillance systems, Providing temporary animal shelter areas, Proactive communication and public relations, Capacity building of network partners, Integrated activity management.

3. After implementation, participants demonstrated statistically significant improvements in knowledge, rabies prevention behaviors, participation, and satisfaction at the .01 and .001 levels. No cases of rabies, exposures, or rabies-related deaths were reported. A total of 10 animal samples were submitted for rabies testing.

In conclusion, the model might be implemented through integrated community networks, including the establishment of temporary animal shelters, sterilization and vaccination campaigns, the application of technology for outbreak monitoring, and proactive communication strategies to enhance community participation.