Management of rabies endemicity in a Tunisian hospital pharmacy department.

PURPOSE: This study highlights the role of a Tunisian hospital pharmacy department in the management of rabies.

METHODS

This prospective and descriptive study was conducted over a 6-month period, from July through December 2024, in the pharmacy department of Mongi Slim hospital. It evaluated both hospital and clinical pharmacy activities related to rabies management. Hospital pharmacy activities included human resource management, procuring rabies immunobiologicals, controlling stock, and monitoring the cold chain. Clinical activities involved reviewing post-exposure prophylaxis (PEP) prescriptions, distributing standardized protocols, and running awareness campaigns.

RESULTS

Pharmacy staff worked within a structured system to ensure accurate PEP dispensing. A dedicated pharmacist coordinated with the regional health directorate to maintain an uninterrupted supply of antirabies treatments. Pharmacy interns and technicians performed daily double checks of stock, while refrigerator tag monitoring and manual temperature checks ensured the integrity of the cold chain. Clinical pharmacists reviewed prescriptions, identified errors, and worked with physicians to correct them. Standardized PEP protocols were distributed to healthcare providers to improve adherence and patient safety. Awareness campaigns led by pharmacists, interns, and residents promoted community engagement in rabies prevention.

CONCLUSION

The hospital pharmacy department played a critical role in ensuring continued access to and proper administration of PEP, thereby supporting national rabies control efforts.