Epidemiology, risk factors, and prevention of animal bites injuries in Slovakia: an 18-year epidemiological analysis.

BACKGROUND: Animal bite injuries, predominantly from dogs, rank among the top 15 causes of nonfatal injuries globally. Since 2006, negligible number of cases of rabies were declared in Slovakia, lacks comprehensive national data on bite demographics and outcomes. METHODS: This Epidemiological study analysed 14,978 patient records (2006-2023) obtained from Slovak public health databases. Statistical analyses, including chi-square tests and linear regression, were used to evaluate trends in bite incidence, vaccination coverage, and associated risk factors. RESULTS: Between 2006 and 2023, 14,978 individuals sought treatment for animal exposures, with 88% of exposures attributed to domestic animals, primarily dogs (78.9%). Children aged 5-9 years and adults aged 25-34 years represented the highest-risk groups. The authors observed a significant downward trend in bite incidence over time (β = -0.507, p = 0.002), with hands being the most commonly affected sites (41%). No human rabies cases were reported after 1990, and nationwide animal vaccination programs led to the near elimination of rabies by 2006. However, the authors recorded a 50% increase in bite incidents in the post-lockdown period (2022-2023), predominantly affecting males. The analysis demonstrated a significant negative temporal trend, with animal bite incidence decreasing by approximately 0.51 cases per 100,000 population per year (β = -0.507, 95% CI: -0.82 to -0.19, p = 0.002). CONCLUSION: Slovakia's rabies control program represents a major public health success; however, animal exposures-particularly dog bites-remain a persistent problem. A temporary decline in bite incidence was observed during COVID-19 lockdowns, followed by a marked post-pandemic increase. Targeted prevention strategies should focus on high-risk populations, promote responsible pet ownership, and address emerging post-pandemic trends.