Explanation and Causes:

Rabies affects all mammals including humans. It is a disease of the central nervous system caused by a virus that is spread by the saliva or brain matter. While this disease is limited to a few wildlife animals, it is more wide spread in developing countries that don’t have the proper vaccines for animals or humans. In the United States, all animal bites should be reported to the local health department. Usually the location of the bite on the body and the severity of the bite will determine speed of the infection to the central nervous system. If immunizations are given within 36-48 hours after the bite, the victim will usually be fine.

Bites from the following animals in the United States are the most common cause:

  • Coyotes
  • Bats
  • Raccoons
  • Skunks
  • Foxes

Rarely this virus can be inhaled if in an area very potent with the virus such as a in the face of an affected animal or in a laboratory.

Symptoms:

In animals the symptoms include:

  • Foaming of the mouth
  • Aggression
  • Paralysis
  • Behavioral changes
  • No fear of humans in wild animals

In humans the symptoms include:

  • Fever
  • Cough
  • Sore throat

Intermediate stage:

  • Restlessness
  • Hallucinations
  • Seizures
  • Insomnia
  • Anxiety

Final stage is coma and death.

Diagnosis and Tests:

Incubation time is 4-6 weeks to a year so this disease can certainly be caught in time to kill the virus. Tests include:

  • DFA test
  • PCR assay

Track down the animal and test it.

Treatment:

It is important to treat this virus before the incubation time ends otherwise there is no cure for the disease. Post exposure prophylaxis includes one dose of Rabin and 5 vaccinations over a 28 day period. This usually takes care of the virus in its incubation period. It is also important to wash out and thoroughly clean the wound.

Prevention:

Don’t get bitten by animals or crazy people.