Rabies

Rabies is a life-threatening virus that causes inflammation in the brain. Animal carrying the infection can spread it through scratch and bites. Animals that are more likely to spread a virus in the US are; coyotes, bats, foxes, and raccoons. Stray dogs and cats are also typical in developing countries.

Without proper treatment, the disease can be fatal. Nonetheless, rabies is highly treatable once you seek immediate medical help. IN the US, one out of three people contract rabies each year. Advances in medicine, vaccination, and awareness reduce the incidence of rabies infection as of the present.

What is Rabies?

Rabies is a viral infection that spreads through a bite from an infected animal. It is an RNA virus of the Rhabdovirus and it affects the peripheral nervous system and replicates in muscle tissue. Once the rabies is inside the system, it eventually causes inflammation of the brain and coma if left untreated.

What are the Symptoms of Rabies?

• Fatigue
• Headache
• Pain and fever
• Muscle spasms
• Irritability
• Agitation
• Excessive movements and aggressiveness
• Seizure and confusion
• Abnormal thoughts or hallucinations
• Paralysis or weakness
• Increases production of tears and saliva
• Sensitivity to lights and sounds
• Trouble in speaking

Seek medical attention if you experience any of the following symptoms:

• Double vision
• Problems in moving a facial muscle
• Abnormal movements of the diaphragm
• Difficulty of swallowing
• Foaming of saliva in the mouth

What are the Risk Factors of Rabies?

• Living or traveling in developing countries where rabies is rampant.
• Activities that put you in contact with animals.
• Working as a veterinarian or working in rabies virus laboratory
• Open wounds in the head or neck that opens the way for the virus to travel to your brain.

How to Diagnose Rabies?

A rapid and accurate method for diagnosing rabies uses saliva for testing and virus isolation. RT-PCR test and serum and spinal fluid are tested for antibodies to the rabies virus. Another method is kin biopsy specimen to determine rabies antigen in the cutaneous nerves are the base of the hair follicles.

Treatment for Rabies

Seek medical help right away if you are bitten by a rabid animal. Rabies is prevented and treated with vaccines. Your doctor may also recommend antibiotics and antiviral medications during the treatment period.

How to Prevent Rabies Infection?

• Vaccinate your pets
• Supervise your pets at home
• Report stray animals to authority
• Avoid direct contact with bats
• Consider the rabies vaccine if you are traveling to developing countries
• Avoid contacts with wild animals to avoid bites