Rabies is a viral disease that causes inflammation of the brain (encephalitis) and is almost always fatal once symptoms appear. It is caused by lyssaviruses, including the rabies virus, and primarily affects the central nervous system
. Transmission:
Rabies is typically transmitted to humans and other mammals through the saliva
of an infected animal, most commonly via bites or scratches. The virus can
also enter through contact with mucous membranes such as the eyes, nose, or
mouth. Globally, dogs are the main source of human rabies infections,
especially in developing countries, while in the Americas, bats are the
leading source
. Symptoms:
Early symptoms include fever and abnormal sensations like tingling or burning
at the site of exposure. As the disease progresses, symptoms may include
nausea, vomiting, violent movements, uncontrolled excitement, fear of water
(hydrophobia), paralysis, confusion, hallucinations, and loss of
consciousness. There are two clinical forms:
- Furious rabies, characterized by hyperactivity, hallucinations, and hydrophobia.
- Paralytic rabies, marked by gradual paralysis and coma
Incubation and Progression:
The incubation period usually ranges from one to three months but can vary
from less than a week to over a year, depending on how far the virus must
travel along nerves to the brain
. Prevention and Treatment:
Rabies is preventable through prompt post-exposure prophylaxis (PEP), which
includes wound cleaning, administration of rabies immune globulin, and a
series of rabies vaccinations. Once clinical symptoms appear, rabies is almost
always fatal
. Public Health Impact:
Rabies causes about 59,000 human deaths annually worldwide, mostly in Africa
and Asia, disproportionately affecting children under 15 years. Vaccinating
dogs and avoiding animal bites are key strategies to control and prevent the
disease
. In summary, rabies is a deadly viral infection transmitted mainly by animal bites, causing fatal brain inflammation, but it is preventable with timely medical intervention.
