Rabies

Rabies

Rabies is a viral disease that affects the nervous system of mammals, including humans. It is caused by the rabies virus, which belongs to the Lyssavirus genus. The virus is usually transmitted through the saliva of infected animals, primarily through bites and scratches. Once the virus enters the body, it travels along the nerves to the brain and central nervous system, leading to severe and often fatal neurological symptoms.

Symptoms of rabies in humans typically appear within a few weeks to a few months after exposure to the virus. The initial symptoms are similar to those of many other illnesses, such as fever, headache, and weakness. As the disease progresses, more specific symptoms manifest, including:

1. Hydrophobia (fear of water): People with rabies often have difficulty swallowing and may experience spasms in their throat muscles when attempting to drink water or other liquids.
2. Aerophobia (fear of air): The sound of moving air or drafts can trigger muscle spasms in those with advanced rabies.
3. Confusion and agitation: Infected individuals may become disoriented, aggressive, or anxious.
4. Hallucinations: Some individuals may experience visual and auditory hallucinations.
5. Paralysis: Muscle weakness and paralysis can occur as the virus affects the nervous system.

Unfortunately, once symptoms appear, rabies is almost always fatal. For this reason, it is crucial to seek medical attention immediately after being bitten by an animal that could potentially carry the virus, such as a stray dog, bat, raccoon, or fox.

Preventing rabies involves a combination of measures:

1. Vaccination: Vaccinating pets and livestock against rabies is essential in preventing the spread of the disease to humans.
2. Avoiding contact with wild animals: People should refrain from handling or approaching wild animals, especially those acting strangely or aggressively.
3. Post-exposure prophylaxis (PEP): If someone is bitten or scratched by an animal suspected of having rabies, they should seek immediate medical attention. PEP involves a series of rabies vaccinations and, if administered early after exposure, can prevent the virus from causing symptoms.
4. Controlling rabies in wildlife: In some regions, wildlife vaccination programs are implemented to control the spread of rabies in wild animal populations.

Rabies is a serious disease, but with proper prevention measures and timely medical attention after exposure, the risk of infection can be significantly reduced.

For more details about Rabies, please contact

“Lifeline Veterinary Hospital & Research Center, Sanepa-2 Lalitpur, Nepal“

Phone no: +977-15919101, Email: lifelineveterinaryhospital@gmail.com