The epidemiology of human rabies postexposure prophylaxis, 1980-1981
C. G. Helmick
Little is known about the epidemiology of human rabies postexposure
prophylaxis (PEP), an important problem whether examined by the cost, the
number of persons treated, or the public health resources required.
Twenty-one states participated in a surveillance of PEP in 1980-1981. When
state health departments were involved, PEP was given correctly to at least
88% of persons. The highest incidence of PEP was in young people up to age
15 years, males, and those in rural areas. Postexposure prophylaxis
occurred primarily during the spring, summer, and fall months. The
epidemiology of PEP varies depending on the source of exposure and age.
Domestic animals and rodents-lagomorphs accounted for PEP far out of
proportion to their small role in animal rabies. Postexposure prophylaxis
can be prevented for many by not keeping wild animals as pets and reduced
by having physicians consult with state or local health departments before
starting treatment.
