Unravelling Rabies: A Comprehensive Guide
The deadly disease rabies has been known by mankind for more than 4,000 years. It continues to be a major public health issue around the world. This viral zoonotic illness, which is primarily found in animals but can be transmitted by bites to humans, almost always results in death once the symptoms are present. It is a sad fact that, in spite of the existence of vaccines and prophylaxis after exposure to rabies, approximately 59,000 people die from rabies each year. This detailed guide explores the causes of rabies and its treatments. We also examine expert opinions, natural remedies, and prevention methods.
Understand Rabies with Facts and Figures
The viral infection rabies causes an acute brain inflammation (encephalitis) and is caused by the central nervous systems. World Health Organization reports that 95% of rabies-related deaths occur in Asia or Africa. Children under 15 years of age represent 40% of those bitten.
It is possible to contract the disease from an infected animal by coming into contact with its saliva through scratches or bites. Dogs are most commonly the carriers of the rabies virus to humans. However, it can also be transmitted by other wild or domestic animals, such as monkeys and raccoons.
Rabies and its Causes
This occurs when the virus is transmitted from an animal to a human. The virus is transmitted from animals to humans.
- A human is bitten by an infected animal
- The saliva from an infected dog is spread through the mouth or other mucous tissues of a human.
- Rarely, infection can be transmitted through organs and tissues transplanted.
You should be aware that you cannot contract rabies by petting or touching a rabid dog or animal, or through contact with their urine or feces.
Rabies Treatment Options
The disease will almost always be fatal once it shows clinical symptoms. There are many effective ways to prevent and control rabies.
- Immunoglobulin for Rabies: It provides antibodies immediately before the vaccine starts working. Patients who are at high risk of rabies exposure and have not been immunized against the disease should receive this vaccine.
- Vaccine against Rabies: This is a series of 14-day injections that stimulates your immune system into producing antibodies to the virus.
If administered correctly and promptly, post-exposure prevention (PEP) is very effective at preventing disease. It includes cleaning the wound, administering immunoglobulin and vaccinating.
Experts' opinions on Rabies
WHO and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention emphasize that awareness and quick action are essential for rabies control. According to the CDC, "the most effective way of preventing deaths due to rabies, is through comprehensive rabies preventive programs, which includes vaccination of domestic pets, control of stray canines, and PEP."
Prevention and Natural Remedies
There are many ways to reduce your risk of rabies infection.
- Vaccinate your pets and make sure they are up to date with their vaccinations
- Keep away from wild animals
- Animal Control should be notified of any animals that are sick or act strangely.
- Bats shouldn't be allowed to enter your living space
The global threat of rabies is still a major concern for public health, especially in Asia and Africa. The fatality of the disease highlights the need for preventive measures such as vaccinations of pets, avoidance of contact with wild animals or stray dogs, and prompt care after exposure. Awareness, education and quick action is our best defence against this deadly illness.
.