Rabies is a serious viral disease that can lead to death if left untreated. It's a zoonotic disease (one that can be passed from animal to human) and affects both domestic and wild animals. It's transmitted to humans through infected saliva in bites or scratches. Treatment in the form of a vaccination is only effective before the onset of symptoms.
Symptoms
Symptoms are mild to begin with and then progressively worsen. Initial symptoms include fever, headache, sore throat and fatigue, after which the respiratory, gastrointestinal and central nervous systems are affected. This is followed by paralysis, coma and eventually death.
Transmission
Infected dogs are the main mode of transmission of rabies in Asia and Africa, through bites and scratches. In the United States, rabies is more prevalent in wild animals, and the virus is spread through infected saliva.
Treatment
Treatment needs to commence before the onset of any symptoms. After contact with a rabid animal, the wound or area of contact should be cleansed and disinfected thoroughly. The antirabies immunization should be administered as soon as possible.
Prevention/Solution
If you're an owner of a cat, dog or ferret, be responsible and keep their vaccinations up to date. Teach your children never to handle unfamiliar domestic or wild animals. Human rabies from bats has increased in the United States; take measures to prevent them from entering your home or other places where either you or your pets might be exposed to them.
Facts
Approximately 50 thousand people die annually after contracting rabies worldwide. Around 95 percent of deaths from rabies occur in Africa and Asia. Most deaths caused by rabies are a result of being bitten by an infected dog. The disease is fatal after the appearance of signs and symptoms.
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