Abstract

Animal bites account for a large amount of injury and illness worldwide. Types of bite, injury risk and outcomes vary considerably by victim age, animal distribution and disease pathology within the region, and availability of appropriate medical and public health resources.

This workshop will present an overview of the current epidemiology of animal bites to humans worldwide. Based on animal species, victim age and type of bite, common injury risks and outcomes will be identified. A discussion of medical and public health resources necessary to decrease morbidity and mortality associated with these injuries will be reviewed. The necessity for advocacy and research on effective animal bite interventions will be summarised.