Original Article

Year : 2026 | Volume : 14 | Issue : 1 | Page : 07-10

Knowledge, Attitude, and Practice Regarding Rabies and Post Exposure Prophylaxis Among Dentists in Coimbatore city - A Cross-Sectional Study

Alfia 1, Anusha 1, Abirami 1, Ahamedha 1, Umesh K 2*

1 Intern, Department of Public Health Dentistry, RVS Dental College and Hospital, The Tamil Nadu Dr. M.G.R. Medical University, Coimbatore – 641402

2* Professor and Head, Department of Public Health Dentistry, RVS Dental College and Hospital, The Tamil Nadu Dr. M.G.R. Medical University, Coimbatore– 641402

Address for Correspondence:

Umesh K,

Professor and Head, Department of Public Health Dentistry, RVS Dental College, Coimbatore – 641402

Email id: drumeshk@gmail.com

Abstract

Introduction: Rabies is a fatal zoonotic disease posing a significant public health burden, particularly in India. Early diagnosis and timely post-exposure prophylaxis (PEP) are critical for preventing mortality. Dental professionals may encounter early orofacial manifestations and play a vital role in early identification and referral. Aim was o assess the knowledge, attitude, and practice (KAP) regarding rabies and PEP among dental practitioners and to evaluate their role in recognizing early orofacial manifestations.

Materials and methods: A cross-sectional survey was conducted among dental practitioners using a structured and validated questionnaire. A total of 437 responses were analyzed. Data were evaluated using descriptive statistics, including frequency and percentage.

Results:Nearly all participants identified rabies as a viral disease (99%) and recognized animal bites as the primary mode of transmission (99%). While 96.1% correctly identified components of PEP, only 31.1% reported having a clinical protocol for rabies exposure in their practice. Awareness of orofacial manifestations was high (98.7%). Although 92.2% acknowledged occupational risk, only about 55% were aware of proper wound management practices.

Conclusion: Dentists demonstrate good awareness of rabies; however, practical preparedness and implementation of clinical protocols remain inadequate. Strengthening training programs and clinical guidelines is essential to improve early detection and management.

Financial support and sponsorship

Nil

Conflicts of interest

There are no conflicts of interest

How to Cite this article: Alfia, Anusha, Abirami, Ahamedha, Umesh K. Knowledge, Attitude and Practice Regarding Rabies and Post-Exposure Prophylaxis Among Dentists in Coimbatore city -A Cross Sectional Study. Int J Comm Dent 2026; 14(1); 07-10. DOI: https://doi.org/10.56501/intjcommunitydent.v14.i1.IJCD-0084