Distribuição espaço-temporal de casos de agressões caninas em Belo Horizonte, 2007/2011

Abstract

Dogs which have shared dwelling with men, are considered the preferred pets in the modern society. Although those interested in living with dogs, should have ethical commitment to develop and maintain habits and attitudes that aim at promoting and preserving human´s health, animal´s health as well as animal welfare and the environment. The canine aggression is a complex problem that surrounds public health and animal welfare. Cases of attacks are reported due to its proximity of animals along the households in different cities in Brazil. This study aimed to evaluate the spatial and temporal characteristics of cases reported from January 2007 to August 2011, based on the National Notifiable Diseases database (SINAN). The dates were prepared in Spreadsheets for analysis using the Excel 2007 version. The Maporama´s software was used to geocoding, for to identify the coordinates. The Geographic Information system ArcGIS was also used to produce the maps.Statistical analyzes were performed by Qui-quadrado test. 6707 prophylactic treatment notifications were evaluated in victims attacked by dogs over the years of 2007 to 2011. A decreasing rate tendency was observed over the years, however an increase of cases happened in January, July and December. The most affected age-group was 5-9 years old. Regarding the location of the offense, lower extremities, hands and feet were the most affected anatomical regions. Biting was the predominant type of exposure, and only superficial injuries were the most common. Considering the 6153 visits prophylactic that were georeferenced, the regional North, Venda Nova, East and South Central stood out. The need for improvements in the notification system and the information submitted was found and also in relation to the offense and so indicates the need to propose actions in order to prevent that type of injury.