Rabies (Hydrophobia)
Rabies, also known as hydrophobia, is caused by the rabies virus. It is a disease that can be transmitted from warm-blooded animals and mammals to humans, mainly through injuries caused by infected animals—such as bites, scratches, or even licks on open wounds.
Rabies can be transmitted through the saliva of infected animals via the mouth, nose, eyes, or open wounds. The most common carriers are dogs and cats, though it can also occur in other animals—both domestic (such as pigs, horses, cattle, and buffaloes) and wild animals (such as monkeys, gibbons, squirrels, and chipmunks).
Once a human is infected and does not receive proper preventive treatment, symptoms typically appear within 15–60 days, although in some cases, symptoms may develop in less than 10 days or take as long as a year. Since there is currently no cure for rabies, prevention is of utmost importance.
Infected individuals may initially experience:
A typical early sign is itching at the site of the bite, which may have already healed. The itching may spread, and the patient may scratch until the skin bleeds. Additional symptoms include:
In later stages, the patient may become paralyzed, lose consciousness, and eventually die within 2–7 days after symptoms appear.
In early stages, the animal may exhibit behavioral changes. Later symptoms include:
In the final stage, the animal may become paralyzed:
The paralysis will progress throughout the body, and the animal usually collapses, seizes, and dies within 10 days after showing symptoms. However, some animals may display only mild symptoms or remain quiet and hidden in dark corners, refuse food, or appear to choke without being aggressive. They may bite only when provoked. Therefore, caution and medical attention are essential.
Prevention is the most important measure against rabies. The motto is: “If bitten by a dog: Wash the wound, apply medication, confine the dog, see a doctor, and complete the vaccination course.”
Pet owners should ensure that animals, such as dogs and cats, are vaccinated against rabies at least once a year. According to the Rabies Control Act, the first vaccine dose should be administered when the animal is 2–5 months old, followed by a booster within 1–3 months.
Reduce the risk of dog bites by adhering to the “5 Don’t”:
Children should not play closely with pets that have not been vaccinated or whose vaccination status is unknown. Pets should be vaccinated as soon as possible. Full immunity typically develops about one month after proper vaccination. If preventing reproduction, consider sterilization or other birth control methods.
Dispose of garbage and food waste in sealed containers or by burying/incinerating them. This prevents stray animals from scavenging. Pet owners should be responsible and not allow pets to become a public nuisance.
If a dog or animal is suspected of having rabies, report it immediately to the Livestock Department, local health officials, or municipality to initiate control measures. Also, identify and monitor anyone who may have been bitten or scratched by the animal to ensure they receive necessary vaccinations.
If bitten or scratched by a dog or mammal:
Animals that have bitten should be quarantined for observation for at least 10 days, during which they should be fed and watered as normal but avoided in terms of contact. If the animal shows abnormal behavior, consult a veterinarian immediately. If it dies during observation, notify authorities to submit its head for rabies testing.
Source: Department of Disease Control, Ministry of Public Health
If someone is bitten, it is important to advise them to wash the wound, apply antiseptic, and seek medical attention at a health center or hospital immediately.
