Overview
What is Rabies?
Rabies is a fatal virus that can be transmitted to humans through the saliva of infected animals, typically through a bite.
In the United States, bats, coyotes, foxes, raccoons, and skunks are the animals that are most likely to transmit rabies. However, in developing countries, it is stray dogs that pose the highest risk of spreading rabies to humans.
It is crucial to note that once an individual starts exhibiting indications and manifestations of rabies, the illness almost invariably leads to fatality. Hence, it is imperative for anyone who might be at risk of contracting rabies to undergo rabies vaccinations in order to safeguard themselves.
Symptoms of Rabies
The initial signs of rabies can closely resemble flu symptoms and persist for several days.
Later indications and symptoms might encompass:
1. Fever
2. Vomiting
3. Agitation
4. Headache
5. Nausea
6. Confusion
7. Vomiting
8. Anxiety
9. Confusion
10. Difficulty swallowing
11. Excessive salivation
12. Hyperactivity
13. Hallucinations
14. Partial paralysis
15. Insomnia
16. Anxiety induced by the struggle to consume liquids due to challenges in swallowing water
17. The sensation of fear arises from the gentle breeze caressing the face
When to see a doctor
It is important to promptly seek medical attention if you sustain a bite from an animal or come into contact with an animal that is believed to have rabies. Depending on the severity of your injuries and the circumstances surrounding the exposure, you and your healthcare provider can determine the necessity of receiving preventive treatment for rabies.
If there is any doubt about being bitten, it is important to seek medical attention. For example, a bat may bite you while you are sleeping without you realizing it. If you wake up to a bat in your room, it is best to assume you have been bitten. Similarly, if you come across a bat near someone who is unable to communicate a bite, like a young child or a person with a disability, it is safest to assume that person has been bitten.
Causes of Rabies
The rabies virus is responsible for causing a rabies infection, which is transmitted through the saliva of infected animals. Transmission of the virus can occur when an infected animal bites another animal or a person.
In rare cases, the infected of rabies may occur when contaminated saliva enters an exposed wound or the mucous membranes, such as the mouth or eyes. This scenario could arise if an infected animal were to lick an open cut on your skin.
Animals that can transmit the rabies virus
Any mammal (an animal that suckles its young) has the potential to transmit the rabies virus. The animals that are at highest risk of spreading the rabies virus to humans are:
Pets and farm animals
1. Cats
2. Dogs
3. Goats
4. Cows
5. Horses
6. Ferrets
Wild animals
1. Foxes
2. Monkeys
3. Bats
4. Beavers
5. Coyotes
6. Raccoons
7. Woodchucks
8. Skunks
Risk factors
There are several factors that can elevate your susceptibility to rabies:
1. Travelling or residing in developing nations where rabies is common.
2. Engaging in activities that may involve encountering wild animals, which could potentially carry rabies, includes exploring caves inhabited by bats or camping without implementing necessary measures to prevent wild animals from approaching your campsite.
3. Working as a veterinarian.
4. Wounds to the head or neck can facilitate the rapid spread of the rabies virus to the brain.
5. Conducting experiments in a laboratory with the rabies virus.
Prevention
To minimize the likelihood of encountering rabid animals, take the following precautions:
1. Vaccinate your pets: Cats, dogs, and ferrets can be vaccinated against rabies. Consult your veterinarian to determine the appropriate vaccination schedule for your pets.
2. Keep your pets confined: Ensure that your pets remain indoors and under your watchful eye while they are outside. By doing so, you can prevent your pets from encountering any wild animals.
3. Protect small pets from predators: Ensure the safety of rabbits and other small pets, such as guinea pigs, by keeping them indoors or in secure enclosures to protect them from wild animals. It is important to note that these small pets cannot receive vaccinations for rabies.
4. Report stray animals to local authorities: Contact your nearby animal control authorities or local law enforcement to report stray dogs and cats.
5. Don’t approach wild animals: Wild animals infected with rabies may exhibit a lack of fear towards humans. It is uncommon for a wild animal to display friendliness towards people, therefore it is advisable to maintain a safe distance from any animal that appears unafraid.
6. Keep bats out of your home: Close off any openings or crevices that bats could use to gain entry into your residence. If you are aware of bats residing in your home, collaborate with a professional in your area to devise strategies for preventing bats from entering.
7. Consider the rabies vaccine if you’re traveling or often around animals that may have rabies: If you are planning to visit a country where rabies is prevalent and your stay will be prolonged, it is advisable to consult your doctor regarding the necessity of receiving the rabies vaccine. This recommendation applies even if you are traveling to remote regions where access to medical facilities may be limited.
If you are employed as a veterinarian or are involved in laboratory work with the rabies virus, it is imperative that you receive the rabies vaccine.
