Caracterização de agravos causados por cães e gatos a seres humanos no município de jaboticabal, são paulo, durante o período de 2000 A 2009

The lack of proper control of dogs and cats population and irresponsible pet ownership are factors that favor animal attack and pose serious public health concern. The aim of the present study was to characterize the injuries caused by dogs and cats to humans in the municipality of Jaboticabal, between the years 2000 and 2009, with a view to demonstrate the importance of aggression control in reducing both the risk for rabies transmission and the number of post exposure prophylaxis administration. A retrospective and descriptive study was conducted. 3,972 out of 4,149 records of patients who sought the public health service after being attacked by an animal were analyzed. Dogs were the species that most caused injuries. In the moment of the attack, the doǵs clinical status was declared as healthy in 81.8% of records; and in 81.1% of cases this status were maintained throughout the entire observation period of the aggressor. Most of injuries were characterized by bites in hands or feet, with multiple and superficial wounds. The number of injuries was high, therefore it is crucial to implement strategies to reduce injuries caused by animal attack through health promotion, educational activities and strengthening of integration of public health and veterinary services so that the decision to institute post-exposure prophylaxis is taken with criteria and safety.