September 28 is World Rabies Day, a global health observance to raise awareness about the world’s deadliest infectious disease and to enhance prevention and control efforts worldwide.
Rabies is a preventable viral disease most often transmitted through the bite of a rabid animal. The rabies virus infects the central nervous system of mammals, ultimately causing disease in the brain and death. Dogs are the main source of human rabies deaths, contributing up to 99% of all rabies transmissions to humans. It is spread to people and animals through bites or scratches, usually via saliva.
Increasing awareness of rabies prevention and control in communities includes education and information on responsible pet ownership, how to prevent dog bites, and immediate care measures after a bite.
The incubation period for rabies is typically 2–3 months but may vary from 1 week to 1 year, dependent upon factors such as the location of virus entry and viral load. Initial symptoms of rabies include a fever with pain and unusual or unexplained tingling, pricking, or burning sensation (paraesthesia) at the wound site. As the virus spreads to the central nervous system, progressive and fatal inflammation of the brain and spinal cord develops.
Post-exposure prophylaxis (PEP) is the immediate treatment of a bite victim after rabies exposure. This prevents virus entry into the central nervous system, which results in imminent death
The best way to protect yourself, your family, and your pets is to keep dogs and cats up to date on their rabies vaccinations.