Origin, distribution and incidence of human rabies in Côte d'Ivoire from 2013 to 2023.

BACKGROUND

This study aims to describe the epidemiological characteristics of human rabies cases in Côte d'Ivoire over 11-year.

METHODS

A retrospective analysis was conducted on all human rabies cases reported from 2013 to 2023. Samples were analyzed by RT-qPCR using primers targeting the nucleoprotein gene according to WHO rabies diagnostic guidelines. Sociodemographic, clinical, and epidemiological data were compiled and analyzed.

RESULTS

Hundred and fifty-two (84.44 %) out of hundred and eighty suspected cases were positive, representing an annual average of 14 cases of rabies. Men accounted for 2/3 of suspected cases and 68.42 % of confirmed ones. Patients' average age was 25.98 years. Socio-professional groups most affected were schoolchildren with 28.29 % of cases, farmers (20.39 %), and housekeepers (13.16 %). District of Abidjan, along with Loh-Djiboua, Gbêkê and Haut-Sassandra regions, recorded the highest positivity rates. Most infections (90.8 %) resulted from third-degree contact (bites), mainly to the upper limbs (46.71 %). The spastic form of rabies was predominant (84.87 %). None of the positive patients had been vaccinated. Vectors were mainly wandering dogs (82.24 %).

CONCLUSION

Human rabies remains a major public health concern in Côte d'Ivoire, mainly affecting schoolchildren and mostly located in rural areas. Prevention strategies, including vaccination and control of wandering animals, remain essential.