How does a rabies infection occur?
The rabies virus is transmitted to humans through the bites of animals, especially dogs.
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Rabies is no longer common in most countries. However, it is still a significant issue in some regions of the world, including India, Africa and South-East Asia. An estimated 55,000 people die of rabies every year, including a few cases a year in almost every country.
Initial symptoms of rabies can include fever; chills; headache; sore throat; loss of appetite; vomiting; discomfort; irritability; and pain, tingling and itching at the site of the bite. A few days after these symptoms, symptoms of the nervous system can …
Anyone not vaccinated against rabies can be infected if bitten by an infected animal.
Your doctor or other health professional will diagnose rabies by observing the clinical signs and by performing specific tests on samples of your blood, skin, saliva or spinal fluid. Tests on the biting animal's brain tissue if it has been euthanised can also help …
Treatment after infection can include cleaning the bite site, vaccination and special immunoglobulin treatment.
The best ways of avoiding rabies are getting vaccinated beforehand and avoiding contact with wildlife and stray dogs.