Post-Exposure Adverse Outcomes of ERIG in Category 3 Animal Bite Cases – A Record-Based Descriptive Cross-Sectional Study

Abstract

Background: Rabies is a fatal zoonotic disease, and Category 3 animal bites require immediate post-exposure prophylaxis (PEP), including the administration of rabies immunoglobulin (RIG). Equine rabies immunoglobulin (ERIG) is widely used in resource-limited settings due to its cost-effectiveness. However, concerns remain regarding its safety profile.
Objectives: To determine the prevalence and clinical range of adverse effects that occur after ERIG administration in Category 3 animal bite cases.
Methods: Using medical records of patients who received ERIG as part of PEP for Category 3 animal bites at Anti-Rabies Vaccine OPD in a tertiary care centre of Central India from June 1, 2024, to May 31, 2025, a record-based cross-sectional descriptive analysis was conducted. Applying Microsoft Excel software version 16.97 (25051114), information on demographics, bite characteristics, ERIG administration, and adverse events was extracted and evaluated.
Results: Among a total of 3492 cases, 3048 were Category 3 animal bite cases, out of which 124 (4.03%) developed a sensitivity reaction following the test dose of ERIG during the observation period. Of the 124 patients who developed sensitivity, 123 required only symptomatic management, while only 1 patient required admission.
Conclusion: ERIG is generally safe, with a low rate of mostly mild reactions. Its benefits in rabies prevention outweigh the risks. Careful monitoring ensures its safe use in public health settings.

How to cite this article:
Ambadkar S , Akre C, Narlawar U, Sharma S, Singh
A. Post-Exposure Adverse Outcomes of ERIG in
Category 3 Animal Bite Cases – A Record-Based
Descriptive Cross-Sectional Study. APCRI J. 2025;
27(2): 11-15.

DOI: https://doi.org/10.24321/0973.5038.202512