Rabies: The 100% Preventable Disease That Still Kills Thousands

Rabies is one of those diseases that sounds like something from a horror story, but it is very real. It is caused by a virus that attacks the brain and nervous system, and once symptoms appear, rabies is almost always fatal. The shocking part is that despite being completely preventable, rabies still kills tens of thousands of people every year, especially in Africa and Asia.

How Does Rabies Spread?

Rabies is usually spread through the bite or scratch of an infected animal. Dogs are the main source of human rabies cases worldwide, although other animals like bats, cats, and wild animals can also carry the virus. The virus is present in the saliva of infected animals, which makes bites particularly dangerous.

Signs and Symptoms

In animals, rabies may cause unusual aggression, excessive drooling, restlessness, or even sudden paralysis.

In humans, the first signs can look like the flu, such as fever, headache, and weakness. As the disease progresses, it causes anxiety, confusion, difficulty swallowing, hydrophobia (fear of water), and eventually coma and death.

Why Does Rabies Still Kill?

The sad truth is that many rabies deaths happen because people do not get timely treatment after being bitten. In some rural areas, access to vaccines is limited, and myths or cultural beliefs sometimes delay treatment. Also, many communities are unaware that vaccinating dogs is the most effective way to prevent rabies in both animals and humans.

How Can Rabies Be Prevented?

The good news is that rabies is completely preventable. Here is how:

1. Vaccinate dogs and cats regularly. This reduces the risk of them carrying and spreading the virus.

Seek medical attention immediately after a bite. Washing the wound with plenty of soap and water, followed by post exposure vaccination, can save a life.

2. Avoid contact with stray or wild animals. 3.Children should especially be taught not to play with unfamiliar animals.