Rabies: A Life-Threatening Disease That Can Be Prevented
Rabies is a severe viral infection. Once neurological symptoms begin, the disease has a mortality rate of nearly 100%. However, rabies can be prevented when the wound is cleaned properly and vaccination is given immediately after possible exposure.
In Thailand, rabies cases continue to occur periodically, particularly following contact with mammals such as dogs, cats, monkeys, and unvaccinated stray animals.
What Is Rabies?
Rabies is caused by a virus from the Lyssavirus group, which attacks the central nervous system.
The virus can spread from infected mammals to humans through saliva, particularly through bites, scratches, or contact with an open wound.
After entering the body, the virus travels along the nerves towards the brain, where it causes encephalitis, a serious condition that may lead to death.
How Is Rabies Transmitted?
All mammals can potentially carry rabies. Animals commonly associated with transmission include:
๐ Dogs
๐ Cats
๐ Monkeys
๐ Bats
๐ Unvaccinated stray animals
High-risk exposures include:
๐ Being bitten deeply enough to break the skin or cause bleeding
๐ Being scratched until the skin is damaged
๐ Animal saliva coming into contact with an open wound
๐ Animal saliva entering the eyes or mouth
Even a small wound may carry a risk of infection.
Symptoms of Rabies in Humans
The average incubation period is approximately one to three months. However, it may be shorter or longer depending on the location of the wound and the amount of virus introduced into the body.
Early Symptoms
๐ Low-grade fever
๐ Headache
๐ Fatigue
๐ Burning pain, tingling, or numbness around the original wound
Neurological Symptoms
๐ Fear of water or hydrophobia
๐ Fear of moving air or drafts
๐ Difficulty swallowing
๐ Restlessness or agitation
๐ Seizures
๐ Paralysis
Once the disease reaches the neurological stage, it becomes extremely severe.
What Should You Do After a Dog Bite?
Immediate care after possible exposure is the most important step.
1. Wash the Wound Immediately
๐ Rinse the wound under continuously running water for at least 15 minutes.
๐ Wash the area thoroughly with soap.
๐ Apply an antiseptic such as povidone-iodine.
Correct wound cleaning can help reduce the amount of virus at the site of exposure.
2. Seek Medical Assessment
A doctor will assess whether the person requires:
๐ Rabies vaccination
๐ Rabies immunoglobulin, or RIG, for high-risk exposure
Do not wait to observe symptoms because rabies may take time to appear but becomes extremely dangerous once symptoms begin.
Types of Rabies Vaccination
1. Post-Exposure Prophylaxis
Post-Exposure Prophylaxis, or PEP, is given after a person has been bitten, scratched, or otherwise exposed to a possible source of rabies.
The full vaccination schedule must be completed as instructed to achieve the best protection.
2. Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis
Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis, or PrEP, is suitable for people at higher risk of exposure, including:
๐ Veterinarians
๐ Animal-control personnel
๐ People who work closely with wildlife
๐ Children who frequently come into contact with animals
How to Prevent Rabies
๐ Vaccinate pets against rabies every year.
๐ Avoid touching or playing with stray animals.
๐ Teach children not to approach unfamiliar animals.
๐ Wash the wound immediately after a bite or scratch.
๐ Seek medical attention promptly after any possible exposure.
Rabies is a serious disease that should never be ignored, even when the wound appears small. Medical assessment is essential.
Immediate wound cleaning and correct vaccination can prevent the disease. Anyone who has been bitten, scratched, or possibly exposed to infected animal saliva should seek medical care without delay.
Reference :
Independent Writer
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