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What Are Rabies 2

Rabies is a viral disease affecting mammals, transmitted primarily through bites from infected animals, leading to severe neurological symptoms and almost certain death if untreated. Prevention through vaccination after exposure and timely wound care is crucial, as there is no effective treatment once symptoms appear. Immediate medical attention is essential following potential exposure to rabies.

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26 views2 pages

What Are Rabies 2

Rabies is a viral disease affecting mammals, transmitted primarily through bites from infected animals, leading to severe neurological symptoms and almost certain death if untreated. Prevention through vaccination after exposure and timely wound care is crucial, as there is no effective treatment once symptoms appear. Immediate medical attention is essential following potential exposure to rabies.

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8fznjbhpqj
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-What are rabies?

Rabies is a viral disease that primarily affects mammals, including humans. It's caused by the
rabies virus, which is typically transmitted through the bite of an infected animal. The virus
attacks the central nervous system, leading to inflammation of the brain and, if untreated, almost
always results in death.
Symptoms of rabies can include:
● Fever
● Headache
● Anxiety or confusion
● Agitation
● Difficulty swallowing
● Hydrophobia (fear of water)
● Paralysis
Once symptoms appear, the disease progresses rapidly, and there is usually no effective
treatment. However, rabies can be prevented through vaccination after exposure (post-exposure
prophylaxis) and through vaccination of pets and wildlife. If bitten by an animal suspected of
having rabies, it’s crucial to seek medical attention immediately.

-How is rabies transmitted to people?

The virus spreads through the saliva of infected animals. Infected animals can spread the virus
by biting another animal or a person. In rare cases, rabies can be spread when infected saliva
gets into an open wound or the mucous membranes, such as the mouth or eyes.

-What are some treatments for rabies?

Once clinical symptoms of rabies appear, the disease is almost always fatal, so prevention is
critical. However, if someone is bitten or exposed to a potentially rabid animal, immediate action
can be taken:
1. Wound Care: Immediately wash the wound thoroughly with soap and water for at least 15
minutes. This is crucial in reducing the risk of infection.
2. Post-Exposure Prophylaxis (PEP): This consists of:
○ Rabies Vaccine: A series of shots that help the body develop immunity to the virus.
The vaccination schedule typically involves doses on days 0, 3, 7, and 14 after
exposure.
○ Rabies Immune Globulin (RIG): Given in conjunction with the vaccine, RIG provides
immediate passive immunity and is injected around the wound site if possible.
3. Timeliness: It's essential to seek treatment as soon as possible after exposure, ideally
within 24 hours, as the vaccine is most effective when administered early.
If symptoms of rabies develop, unfortunately, there is no effective treatment, and the focus shifts
to palliative care. Always consult a healthcare provider for advice if there's any risk of rabies
exposure.

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