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Abstract

Rabies remains a major but neglected public health problem in Nigeria, driven largely by dog bites and low dog vaccination coverage. This study assessed awareness of dog-bite wound management and rabies prevention among health personnel in Maiduguri. A cross-sectional survey was conducted among 129 respondents, including doctors, nurses, veterinarians, pharmacists, and other allied health workers, using a structured and pre-tested questionnaire. Respondents were selected through stratified sampling, and data were collected through face-to-face interviews using Kobo Toolbox. Knowledge scores were coded and categorized as poor (<50%), fair (50-79%), or good (≥80%). Chi-square (Fisher’s exact) analysis was used to test associations between demographic variables and knowledge level at p≤0.05. Only 38 respondents (29.5%) demonstrated good knowledge of dog-bite wound management and rabies prevention. Older respondents aged 46 years and above had the highest proportion of good knowledge (66.7%), compared with 40.4% among those aged 18–30 years and 20.3% among those aged 31-45 years. Males showed better knowledge than females, and only respondents with tertiary education had good knowledge scores. Age, sex, educational attainment, and profession were significantly (p≤0.05) associated with knowledge level. While 65.1% correctly identified the pre-exposure rabies vaccination schedule, only 31.8% knew the correct post-exposure schedule. Slightly more than half (56.8%) had received prior training. Mandatory training on rabies prevention and dog-bite care for all health workers, plus accessible vaccination, can reduce deaths. Hospitals should provide WHO-based refresher training, while medical, nursing, and veterinary schools should teach practical rabies management skills.

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assessment awareness management dog bite wound health personnel Maiduguri rabies

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Assessment of Awareness on Dog Bite Wound Management Among Health Personnel in Maiduguri Metropolis, Borno State, Nigeria. (2026). Sahel Journal of Veterinary Sciences, 23(2), 1-9. https://doi.org/10.54058/rk8drw09
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Assessment of Awareness on Dog Bite Wound Management Among Health Personnel in Maiduguri Metropolis, Borno State, Nigeria. (2026). Sahel Journal of Veterinary Sciences, 23(2), 1-9. https://doi.org/10.54058/rk8drw09

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