A Retrospective Analysis of Mammal Bites in Kuwait: Seasonality, Demographics, and Occupations

Abstract

Objective: Investigate mammal bites in Kuwait and their public health implications.Design: A retrospective analysis of mammal bite records from 2012 to 2020 was conducted, using data obtained from the Ministry of Health, Department of Public Health. Statistical analyses were performed with the SPSS Professional Statistics package (Version 17). Setting: The study took place in Kuwait, a small, arid country situated in the northwestern corner of the Arabian Peninsula, with a diverse population of 4.363 million.Subjects: The study involved 24,426 mammal bite victims.Interventions: Bite victims received post-exposure prophylaxis with the human diploid cell culture rabies vaccine (HDCV); quarantined animals were tested for rabies.Main Outcome Measures:The number of mammal bites, species involved, victim demographics, and vaccination rates were assessed.Results: Animal bites ranged from 1,977 cases in 2012 to 3,866 cases in 2019. Dogs and cats were responsible for 53.22% and 42.29% of the cases, respectively. Most cases occurred between December and January. The male-to-female ratio was 2.74:1, with an average age of 24.7±17.5 years. Bites were most common among individuals aged 25-45 years, accounting for 53% of total cases. Overall, 83.6% of bite victims received vaccinations, and all tested animals were negative for rabies.Conclusion: Mammal bites in Kuwait represent a significant public health issue. Enhanced surveillance measures and prevention strategies are crucial due to the presence of rabies in neighboring countries and the potential for cross-border transmission.