Rabies post-exposure prophylaxis at a clinic in Fajara, The Gambia

Thomas, E., Jallow, B. J., Carayol, I., Ideh, R. C. and Anderson, S. T. (2014) Rabies post-exposure prophylaxis at a clinic in Fajara, The Gambia. Transactions of the Royal Society of Tropical Medicine and Hygiene, 108(8), pp. 513-515. (doi: 10.1093/trstmh/tru069)

Abstract

Background: The Gambia is a popular holiday destination that is classified as a high-risk area for rabies exposure by the WHO.

Methods: This was a retrospective study of 49 subjects with rabies exposure attending The Medical Research Council Clinical Service, The Gambia, for treatment. Their demographics, details of exposure and treatment delivery were evaluated.

Results: An estimated 16% (8/49) of all exposures were likely to be from rabid animals. Moreover, 24% (12/49) of patients were tourists, none of whom had received pre-exposure prophylaxis.

Conclusion: Rabies exposure is a serious risk for Gambians and visitors. Tourists should be advised about pre-exposure prophylaxis and risk reduction of rabies exposure.

• Item Type: Articles
• Status: Published
• Refereed: Yes
• Glasgow Author(s) Enlighten ID: Thomas, Miss Elizabeth
• Authors: Thomas, E., Jallow, B. J., Carayol, I., Ideh, R. C., and Anderson, S. T.
• College/School: College of Medical Veterinary and Life Sciences > School of Medicine, Dentistry & Nursing
• Journal Name: Transactions of the Royal Society of Tropical Medicine and Hygiene
• Publisher: Oxford University Press
• ISSN: 0035-9203
• ISSN (Online): 1878-3503