RABIES
WHAT IS RABIES?
Rabies is a virus that affects the central nervous system.
It is preventable, but deadly if medical attention is not given after potential exposure.
Transmission
Rabies is mainly found in wild animals in the United States. Most rabies deaths outside of the United States are still caused by dog bites.
Animal Bites
The most common cause of rabies exposure is by being bitten by an infected animal.
In the United States, rabies is mostly found in wild animals, particularly bats, raccoons, skunks, foxes and mongooses.
In rare cases, a person can be exposed to rabies through scratches or other wounds that are exposed to infected saliva.
Aerosolized Rabies
Unless you are laboratory worker working directly with the rabies virus, there is no potential for exposure through aerosolized rabies.
Other Methods
In two extremely rare cases, transmission occurred through organ transplants. Because of this, rabies screening questions have been added to organ procurement procedures.
Casual contact is not a method for transmission.
Once the rabies virus dries and becomes in contact with sunlight it is no longer infectious.
Symptoms
The rabies virus must travel to the brain before it can cause symptoms.
Incubation
The incubation period can last for weeks to months.
Incubation will vary depending on the distance of the exposure site to the brain, the type of rabies and existing immunity.
Initial Symptoms
The initial symptoms may last for several days and be flu-like, including fever, headache, and weakness.
Additional symptoms include itching or discomfort at the bite site.
Progressed Symptoms
As the virus progresses to the brain, symptoms include abnormal behavior, confusion, agitation, and fear of water.
This lasts for 2 to 10 days and is always fatal.
Prevention
Rabies is preventable.
Vaccinate Pets
All pets should be vaccinated against rabies, including cats, ferrets, dogs, and horses.
Avoid contact between unwanted or stray animals and your pet.
Avoid Wildlife
Wildlife should be left alone. The leading cause of rabies death in people in the United States is bites from an infected bat.
Wash any bites or scratches immediately with soap and water.
Postexposure Prophylaxis
If you think you have been exposed, contact your doctor or public health officials. They will determine if you need post exposure prophylaxis, which consists of human rabies immune globulin and rabies vaccine.
Rabies is 100% preventable if prompt medical care is given.
Rabies Around the World
Outside of the United States, the most common transmission of rabies is still bites by infected dogs. If you are traveling abroad, take steps to protect yourself by avoiding stray animals.