The impact of nonpharmaceutical interventions (NPIs) on rabies post-exposure prophylaxis: A comparative study in Wuhan, 2022 vs. 2023.

Following the termination of China's dynamic zero-COVID-19 policy at the end of 2022, this study aimed to compare rabies post-exposure prophylaxis (PEP) patterns between 2022 and 2023 and to analyze the specific effects of nonpharmaceutical interventions (NPIs) on PEP for the rabies-exposed population in Wuhan. We conducted a retrospective analysis of rabies-exposed individuals seeking care at an anti-rabies clinic in Wuhan from January 2022 to December 2023. Data on gender, age, exposure level, anatomical site of exposure, and vaccination completion status were collected and analyzed. Significant differences were observed in the characteristics of rabies-exposed individuals between 2022 and 2023. Although the total number of clinic visits was similar between the 2 y (16,970 in 2022 vs. 15,452 in 2023), with cases peaking during summer and autumn in both years, the 2022 cohort had a higher proportion of males, adolescents (under 20 y old), and rural residents. In contrast, the proportion of category III exposures necessitating anti-rabies serum or immunoglobulin (33.17% vs. 36.01%) and upper limb injuries (52.61% vs. 61.66%) were lower in 2022 than in 2023. Furthermore, over 10% of exposed individuals (10.82%) in 2022 failed to complete the full vaccination course. Compared with national data and data from other regions worldwide, the Wuhan cohort exhibited a relatively lower proportion of category III exposures and a higher incidence of injuries caused by cats relative to dogs. The stringent NPIs implemented during the 2022 pandemic significantly altered the profile and management of rabies-exposed individuals. These findings underscore the necessity for adaptable and context-specific rabies prevention and control strategies to effectively mitigate rabies risk under varying public health conditions.