Every year, on September 28th, the world comes together to observe World Rabies Day. This global initiative aims to raise awareness about rabies, a deadly viral disease that continues to pose a significant threat to humans and animals worldwide. Understanding what rabies is, its signs and symptoms, and the available treatments are essential in preventing its spread and saving lives. Uttar Pradesh: Rabies-Infected Girl Bites 40 People After Being Attacked by Stray Dog in Jalaun, Both Die. 

What is Rabies?

Rabies is a viral disease caused by the rabies virus, which belongs to the Lyssavirus genus. It primarily affects mammals, including humans, dogs, cats, bats, and wildlife. The virus is typically transmitted through the saliva of an infected animal via bites, scratches, or open wounds. Once the virus enters the body, it travels through the nervous system, eventually reaching the brain, where it causes inflammation and severe damage.

Rabies is a zoonotic disease, meaning it can be transmitted from animals to humans. In most cases, rabies is fatal once clinical symptoms appear, making it a grave public health concern.

Signs and Symptoms of Rabies

The incubation period for rabies—the time between the initial infection and the appearance of symptoms—varies but can range from a few weeks to several years. Understanding the early signs and symptoms of rabies is crucial for seeking prompt medical attention:

  • Flu-like Symptoms: Rabies often begins with non-specific symptoms similar to the flu. This may include fever, headache, weakness, and fatigue.

  • Pain and Tingling: Some individuals may experience pain, tingling, or itching at the site of the initial wound or bite.

  • Agitation and Anxiety: As the virus progresses, it affects the central nervous system, leading to increased agitation, anxiety, and confusion.

  • Hydrophobia: One of the classic signs of rabies is hydrophobia, an extreme fear of water. This fear is due to difficulty swallowing caused by muscle spasms in the throat.

  • Hallucinations and Paralysis: Rabies can cause hallucinations, paralysis, and delirium, leading to coma and death.

  • Increased Salivation: Infected individuals may produce excessive saliva, leading to the classic "foaming at the mouth" appearance.

Treatment for Rabies

Once clinical symptoms of rabies appear, the disease is almost always fatal. Therefore, immediate medical attention is crucial, particularly if you've been bitten or scratched by an animal, even if you've been vaccinated against rabies in the past.

Post-Exposure Prophylaxis (PEP): If you suspect you've been exposed to the rabies virus, PEP is a series of rabies vaccinations given over several weeks. PEP is highly effective if administered before the onset of symptoms, preventing the virus from progressing to the symptomatic stage.

Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis (PreP): People at higher risk of rabies exposure, such as veterinarians, animal handlers, and travelers to rabies-endemic areas, can receive a pre-exposure rabies vaccination series. This provides a level of immunity and can simplify the post-exposure treatment if they are exposed.

Preventing Rabies

Prevention is key to combatting rabies. Here are some essential preventive measures:

  • Vaccination: Ensure that your pets, including dogs and cats, are up-to-date on their rabies vaccinations.

  • Avoid Wild Animals: Do not approach, feed, or handle wild or unfamiliar animals, including bats.

  • Animal Control: Report stray or aggressive animals to local animal control authorities.

  • Education: Educate yourself and your community about the risks of rabies and how to prevent it.

  • Prompt Medical Attention: If bitten or scratched by an animal, wash the wound thoroughly with soap and water and seek medical attention immediately.

World Rabies Day serves as a reminder of the ongoing battle against this deadly disease and the importance of prevention and education. By understanding the signs and symptoms of rabies, seeking prompt medical attention when exposed, and promoting responsible pet ownership, we can work together to eliminate this ancient and deadly threat to human and animal health. Rabies is preventable, and with continued efforts, we can move closer to a world free from the fear of rabies.

(The above story first appeared on LatestLY on Sep 29, 2023 11:07 PM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com).