What is Rabies ?
Rabies is a fatal viral disease that affects the central nervous system, causing brain inflammation. It spreads through bites or saliva of infected animals like dogs, bats, and raccoons.
Symptoms of Rabies
- 1. Fever and headache
- 2. Tingling or pain at the bite site
- 3. Muscle weakness or paralysis
- 4. Agitation and confusion
- 5. Difficulty swallowing and excessive drooling
- 6. Hydrophobia (fear of water)
- 7. Respiratory failure (leading to coma and death)
Rabies: A Silent but Deadly Threat
Rabies is a fatal neurological disease that affects the central nervous system (CNS), leading to brain inflammation, paralysis, coma, and death once symptoms develop. Since there is no cure after symptom onset, immediate post-exposure prophylaxis (PEP) is essential for survival. A hidden danger of rabies is its delayed onset, as symptoms may take weeks or even months to appear, creating a false sense of security. The only effective way to prevent rabies is through early vaccination and prompt medical intervention.
Consult Our Infectious Disease Specialist
- Dr. Nopporn Apiwattanakul, MD : Specializes in infectious diseases with a focus on rabies prevention, diagnosis, and therapeutic management. Book Appointment
- Dr. Dmytro Palii, MD, PHD : Board-certified infectious disease specialist with expertise in rabies prevention and treatment. Book Appointment
- Dr. Besmira Zama, Ph.D (Dermatology) : Experienced infectious disease specialist known for a compassionate approach to rabies prevention and treatment. Book Appointment
Importance and Benefits of Consulting a Infectious Disease Specialist Online
Consulting an infectious disease specialist immediately is crucial, as rabies is a rapidly progressing and fatal disease. India remains one of the most affected countries, primarily due to a large population of stray dogs, which are the main carriers of the virus. Many regions in Asia and Africa also struggle with high rabies cases, as dog rabies remains poorly controlled. Limited vaccine access and treatment challenges heighten rabies risks, making it a major public health concern. Control efforts focus on dog vaccination, awareness, and better medical access.
How Our Platform Connects You with Infectious Disease Specialists
Easily schedule an online video, audio, or chat consultations with an Infectious Disease Specialist through our intuitive platform. Get expert guidance on rabies exposure, risk assessment, and immediate post-exposure treatment. Choose your preferred specialist, book a convenient appointment, and receive personalized care. Enjoy the ease of electronic prescriptions and medical certificates for timely intervention.
100% Refund Policy
We value your satisfaction and confidence in our services. If, for any reason, your consultation does not occur, we offer a 100% refund policy to ensure your peace of mind.
FAQ
Rabies is primarily transmitted through the bite or scratch of an infected animal, as the virus is present in their saliva. It can also spread if infected saliva comes into contact with open wounds, mucous membranes (eyes, nose, mouth), or broken skin. The most common carriers include dogs, bats, raccoons, foxes, skunks, and other mammals. Human-to-human transmission is extremely rare, but organ transplants from infected donors have been reported as a possible transmission route.
The incubation period for rabies typically ranges from 2 weeks to 3 months, but in rare cases, it can be as short as a few days or extend to several years. The time it takes for symptoms to appear depends on factors such as the bite location (bites closer to the brain or nervous system lead to faster symptom onset), the amount of virus transmitted, and the individual's immune response. Since rabies is almost always fatal once symptoms develop, immediate post-exposure prophylaxis (PEP) is essential to prevent the disease.
If you are bitten or scratched by an animal, immediately wash the wound with soap and running water for at least 15 minutes to reduce the risk of infection. Apply an antiseptic, such as iodine or alcohol, to disinfect the area. Avoid squeezing or covering the wound tightly. Seek medical attention immediately to assess the need for rabies post-exposure prophylaxis (PEP), which includes a rabies vaccine and, if necessary, rabies immunoglobulin (RIG). Even if the bite seems minor, do not wait for symptoms to appear, as rabies is almost always fatal once symptoms develop. Additionally, report the incident to local health authorities to assess the need for animal observation or testing.
No, rabies has no cure once symptoms appear, and it is almost always fatal. However, it can be prevented if treated immediately after exposure. Post-exposure prophylaxis (PEP), which includes a series of rabies vaccines and, in some cases, rabies immunoglobulin (RIG), is highly effective in preventing the virus from reaching the central nervous system. This treatment must be started as soon as possible after a bite or suspected exposure to be effective. Once rabies symptoms develop, there is no known treatment, and the disease is nearly always fatal.