The reality of rabies

by Symptom Advice on February 23, 2012

Summertime is the time when cases of dogs infected with rabies begin to escalate. However the term for rabies in Thai, which translates to “mad dog’s disease”, is somewhat misleading as other types of household pets are also prone to rabies, including cats, hamsters, squirrels and rabbits. and if unaware, owners can get the virus from their infected pets.

A dog owner holds his pet while a veterinarian gives a rabies vaccination.

Rabies is a deadly virus that attacks the nervous system (especially the brain and meninges) in both humans and animals and can spread very rapidly, resulting in death. Currently there is still no cure for rabies and the mortality rate is almost 100%.

An infected animal carries the rabies virus in its saliva and, as we often hear, can be transmitted through open wounds, mostly from biting. Though its largely unheard of people getting rabies simply by being licked or scratched or coming into contact with an infected animal’s saliva, it is possible. Genital areas, even with no open wounds, are also prone to this infection.

There are two forms of rabies. the first, which is more common, is an aggressive type in which the infected animal becomes rabid and may try to attack or bite any moving objects, including people and other animals. the symptoms and signs of this form of rabies generally last a few days and the animal will eventually become paralysed in the throat, making it impossible to swallow, and both hind legs. the second form is harder to notice as the animal will only appear to be depressed. the infected animal may open its mouth often and its tongue will become a dark red colour. strange behaviour might also be noticed, such as eating leaves and rocks or drinking its own urine. If you are doubtful whether an animal is infected, stay away and notify relevant agencies immediately.

If you are bitten, whether its on an open wound or not, and you don’t know if the animal has been vaccinated against rabies, always assume the worst and seek medical help. Once bitten, clean the wound with water and soap as soon as possible and apply alcohol solution to the wound, then see a doctor immediately. If possible, keep the animal in a cage and observe its behaviour for 10-15 days. If the animal dies within that period, contact the Department of Livestock Development in your local area.

Those who are bitten and fail to get appropriate medical care will experience flu-like symptoms, including a low-grade fever and sore throat in the first few days, then begin to lose their appetite and develop a burning sensation around the wound. Later, they might experience symptoms such as restlessness, light sensitivity and have difficulty swallowing. Fatigue will also set in, followed by paralysis and low blood pressure, and possible death within two weeks.

Although the mortality rate of rabies is almost 100%, it can be prevented by getting your pets vaccinated. Free services are available according to the WHO’s policies to eliminate rabies by 2020. Animals that have been vaccinated will be given a vaccine tag on their collars. so lookout, and make sure your buddies have them!

Bangkok Health Research Centre, Bangkok Hospital.

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