Rabies is a disease that is acquired by human beings through animals. The most common mode of transmission is through the bite of a rabid animal. The causal virus is transferred through the saliva of the infected animal. The incidence of rabies is reported throughout the US except in the state of Hawaii. However, the awareness of its repercussions has made people vigilant towards its preventive measures. Most household pets are vaccinated against rabies; as a consequence since the year 1980, only thirty-six cases of rabies have been recorded. |
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The rabies virus can gain entry even through an apparently insignificant bite without occurrence of any wound. Once the rabies virus enters the body, it attacks the central nervous system causing swelling in the brain. The initial symptoms of the disease include changes in temperament, fever, headache and itchiness or pain in the bitten area. With the advancement of the disease, the patient may experience paralysis, seizures and hallucinations. The only way to save one’s life after exposure is immediate administration of a series of rabies vaccinations. The interim time period between the exposure and onset of symptoms is about two to twelve weeks. Fatality is almost certain once the symptoms start emerging.
Although the rise in awareness with regards to the consequences of the disease has led to a decline its incidence in pet animals, the disease remains an issue of concern amongst wild animals. The rabies virus is reported to have resurfaced in raccoons, skunks, foxes, coyotes, and bats. Recent research highlights that from dogs, the culprit of rabies in human beings has shifted to bats.
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