RABIES

RABIES:

Rabies ; derived from Latin: rabies, "madness“.

a viral disease that causes acute encephalitis in warm-blooded animals.

Agents: rabies virus.

The disease is zoonotic- meaning it can be transmitted to humans from another species (such as dogs), commonly by a bite from an infected animal.

The rabies virus infects the central nervous system, ultimately causing disease in the brain and death.

TRANSMISSION AND INCUBATION PERIOD

Incubation period:

The incubation period of the disease is usually a few months in humans, depending on the distance the virus must travel to reach the central nervous system.

Mode of transmission: Most animals can be infected by the virus and can

transmit the disease to humans. Infected bats, monkeys, raccoons, foxes, skunks, cattle, wolves, dogs or cats present the greatest risk to humans.

The virus is usually present in the nerves and saliva of a symptomatic rabid animal.

Transmission between humans is extremely rare. A few cases have been recorded through transplant surgery.

SYMPTOMS:

The symptoms - slight or partial paralysis, anxiety, insomnia, confusion, agitation, abnormal behaviour, paranoia, terror, and hallucinations, progressing to delirium.

Saliva production is greatly increased, and attempts to drink, or even the intention or suggestion of drinking may cause excruciatingly painful spasms of the muscles in the throat and larynx.

Death almost invariably results 2 to 10 days after first symptoms. Once symptoms have presented, survival is rare, even with the administration of proper and intensive care.

DIAGNOSIS:

Rabies can be difficult to diagnose because, in the early stages, it is easily confused with other diseases or aggressiveness.

The reference method for diagnosing rabies is the Fluorescent Antibody Test (FAT) which is recommended by World Health organization (WHO).

TREATMENT:

Thoroughly washing the wound as soon as possible with soap and water for approximately five minutes is very effective in reducing the number of viral particles.

The first dose of rabies vaccine is given as soon as possible after exposure, with additional doses on days three, seven and 14 after the first.

PREVENTION: Vaccinating dogs, cats, rabbits, and ferrets against rabies

Keeping pets under supervision

Not handling wild animals or strays

Contacting an animal control officer upon observing a wild animal or a stray, especially if the animal is acting strangely

If bitten by an animal, washing the wound with soap and water for 10 to 15 minutes and contacting a healthcare provider to determine if post-exposure prophylaxis is required

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