Origin, distribution and incidence of human rabies in Côte d’Ivoire from 2013 to 2023

Background: This study aims to describe the epidemiological characteristics of human rabies cases in Côte d'Ivoire over 11-year. Methods: A retrospective analysis was conducted on all human rabies cases reported from 2013 to 2023. Samples were analyzed by RT-qPCR using primers targeting the nucleoprotein gene according to WHO rabies diagnostic guidelines. Sociodemographic, clinical, and epidemiological data were compiled and analyzed. Results: Hundred and fifty-two (84.44 %) out of hundred and eighty suspected cases were positive, representing an annual average of 14 cases of rabies. Men accounted for 2/3 of suspected cases and 68.42 % of confirmed ones. Patients' average age was 25.98 years. Socio-professional groups most affected were schoolchildren with 28.29 % of cases, farmers (20.39 %), and housekeepers (13.16 %). District of Abidjan, along with Loh-Djiboua, Gbêkê and Haut-Sassandra regions, recorded the highest positivity rates. Most infections (90.8 %) resulted from third-degree contact (bites), mainly to the upper limbs (46.71 %). The spastic form of rabies was predominant (84.87 %). None of the positive patients had been vaccinated. Vectors were mainly wandering dogs (82.24 %). Conclusion: Human rabies remains a major public health concern in Côte d'Ivoire, mainly affecting schoolchildren and mostly located in rural areas. Prevention strategies, including vaccination and control of wandering animals, remain essential.