Rabies is one of the most dangerous diseases in the world. The rabies virus survives in wild reservoir hosts. Learn more.

Rabies is one of the most dangerous diseases in the world. The rabies virus survives in wild reservoir hosts. It is impossible to eradicate the virus in such hosts as skunks, raccoons and foxes.

Another type of rabies is found in developing nations as well as developed nations. That is called the " urban rabies. " Dogs are the main weapon in the transmission of rabies. Unvaccinated dogs and strays are often infected with the rabies virus. The virus is transmitted via contamination of a cut with the infected saliva. Sometimes, the virus is transmitted via airborne particles.

If there are any signs or symptoms of rabies, the animal is beyond recovery. To avoid infecting other healthy animals and humans, it is best to put it to sleep. Rabies is a fatal attack ending the life within 10 days. If a human being is infected, the person is sent to hospital and put on life support machines until the natural recovery as there are no known drugs to resist rabies.

The 3 clinical stages of rabies are the prodromal, excitative and paralytic stages. The first stage is seen as a behavioral change. The animal undergoes a total reversal of its normal character. A human infected with the prodromal stage would experience fever, anxiety, agitation and headaches. This stage lasts for 3 days.

The second stage manifests itself in violent, odd behaviors. This is the losing of senses and the infected animal is uncontrollable. It will bite other animals without prior provocation. This is the contagious stage of rabies. The disease causes the victim to seek other victims to proliferate the virus.

At the last stage of rabies, the victim becomes paralyzed and dies. Sadly, there is no treatment to cure rabies for animals. When there is an alert of rabies, the disease can be stopped in its tracks with vaccinations of animals and humans and eliminating strays. The incubation period of rabies is very indefinite and clinical signs may not be apparent until the disease is full blown. It is better to be safe than sorry.

Another way of preventing contact with the rabies virus is to avoid contact with stray animals and wildlife. Animals which are transported to other countries need rabies vaccinations. In some countries, there is a compulsory quarantine of 30 days for any imported animal. This observatory period is to determine that the animal is indeed rabies free.

Bear in mind that rabies is fatal. Avoid picking up strays or petting unfamiliar animals. This reminder can save your life!