Abstract

The study was conducted from November 2016 to April 2017 in 12 kebeles (the smallest administrative unit of Ethiopia) of Kombolcha, Southern Wollo Amhara Regional State, Ethiopia. The aims of the study were to assess the knowledge, attitudes and practices (KAP) of Kombolcha’s community toward rabies and associated risk factors. A cross-sectional study design and multistage sampling procedures were employed to select households for the study. Kebeles were randomly selected using lottery method from list of kebeles in the study area, followed by selection of households from each kebele by systematic random sampling. Data were collected from 384 households through face to face interview using pre-tested and well-structured questionnaires. Socio-demographically, out of the 384 respondents interviewed, 223 (58.1%) were males and 161 (41.9%) were females. From 384 respondents, 345 (89.8%) had heard about rabies before and the majority of the study participants, 329 (85.7%) had good level of KAP. There were statistically significant associations (p<0.05) between KAP scores and age, house hold size, educational status, and occupation. In conclusion, the study revealed that, Kombolcha’s community has good knowledge, attitude and practice toward rabies. However, there are some inconsistencies on mode of transmission, symptoms, appropriate prevention and treatment measures. Therefore, continuous and strategic health programs are expected from health professionals, governmental and non-governmental organizations to control and prevent the disease and secure rabies free zone.

Key words: Attitude, community, knowledge, kombolcha, practice, rabies.