Rabies Deadly Viral Disease

Rabies is a viral infection that attacks the nervous system, especially the brain and spinal cord. It is caused by the Rabies virus, a member of the Lyssavirus genus.

Affected sign of Rabies

📌 How Rabies Spreads

• Through the bite or scratch of an infected animal (dogs are the most common source).

• When the saliva of a rabid animal comes into contact with open wounds, eyes, nose, or mouth.

• The virus travels along the nerves until it reaches the brain, where symptoms begin.

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👨‍⚕️ Symptoms in Humans

Rabies symptoms usually appear 2–8 weeks after exposure (sometimes longer).

• Fever, headache, and general weakness

• Pain, tingling, or itching at the bite site

• Fear of water (hydrophobia) and fear of air (aerophobia)

• Anxiety, irritability, confusion, and difficulty sleeping

• Seizures and abnormal movements

• Once symptoms appear, rabies is almost 100% fatal

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🐕 Rabies in Animals

All mammals are susceptible to rabies. The disease generally progresses in three stages:

1. Prodromal stage: Sudden behavioral changes such as extreme fear, unusual aggression, or abnormal friendliness.

2. Furious stage: Restlessness, aggressive biting, continuous barking, and eating non-food objects.

3. Paralytic stage: Drooping jaw, excessive drooling (foamy saliva), paralysis of the limbs, and finally death.
   
   
   

   

   Rabid Animal

   
   

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💉 Prevention and Control

In Animals:

• Regular rabies vaccination for dogs, cats, and other domestic animals is essential.

In Humans:

• Post-Exposure Prophylaxis (PEP):

  • Wash the wound immediately with soap and plenty of water

  • Take rabies vaccine as per the recommended schedule

  • In severe cases, receive Rabies Immunoglobulin (RIG)

• Once clinical symptoms appear, no treatment is effective and death is almost certain.