Every year on September 28, World Rabies Day is observed to promote global efforts for rabies prevention and control. This day marks the anniversary of Louis Pasteur’s death, the scientist who developed the first rabies vaccine. Organized by the Global Alliance for Rabies Control (GARC) and supported by the World Health Organization (WHO), World Rabies Day highlights the significance of vaccinating animals and educating the public about rabies prevention.
What is Rabies?
Rabies is a viral disease, primarily transmitted through the bite of an infected animal, especially dogs. If left untreated, rabies is almost always fatal once symptoms develop, making early intervention and vaccination critical. Although preventable, rabies remains a serious public health issue, particularly in developing countries.
The Importance of Vaccination and Awareness
The goal of World Rabies Day is to eliminate rabies through the vaccination of animals and by educating the public about preventive measures and post-exposure treatments. Dogs are responsible for up to 99% of rabies cases in humans, particularly in countries with less access to rabies control programs. Vaccination of pets and stray animals, alongside raising public awareness, can save lives.
In regions where dog rabies is under control, other animals, like bats, foxes, raccoons, and skunks, can also spread the virus. It is essential to monitor both wildlife and domestic animals for symptoms and vaccinate high-risk populations.
Rabies in Animals
Rabies symptoms vary among species, but the virus ultimately affects the nervous system, leading to two main forms of rabies: “furious rabies” and “paralytic (dumb) rabies.”
- Furious rabies: Characterized by aggression, restlessness, and unprovoked biting.
- Paralytic rabies: Involves gradual paralysis, leading to difficulty in swallowing and death.
The most common animals that transmit rabies to humans include:
- Dogs: Leading carriers worldwide, responsible for most human rabies cases.
- Bats: The primary source of rabies infections in regions where dog rabies is controlled.
- Foxes, Raccoons, and Skunks: Significant carriers in North America and Europe.
- Monkeys and Livestock: Occasionally carry rabies in parts of Asia and Africa.
Rabies in Humans
Rabies in humans typically progresses in three stages:
- Prodromal Phase: Flu-like symptoms, pain at the bite site, and anxiety.
- Acute Neurological Phase: Hallucinations, hydrophobia, and muscle spasms.
- Coma and Death: Once symptoms appear, rabies is nearly always fatal. Respiratory failure is often the cause of death.
Prevention and Treatment at BOSH Multispecialty Hospital
BOSH Multispecialty Hospital is committed to raising awareness about rabies prevention and ensuring timely treatment for bite victims. Our hospital provides:
- Vaccination Services: Regular rabies vaccinations for pets and farm animals. We also offer post-exposure prophylaxis (PEP) for individuals exposed to potential rabies infection.
- Public Health Education: Through community outreach, we educate the public on the dangers of rabies, responsible pet care, and the importance of seeking medical help immediately after an animal bite.
- Immediate Wound Care: After exposure, immediate wound cleaning and vaccination are crucial. Our emergency department offers rabies immunoglobulin (RIG) and vaccines to prevent the virus from progressing.
Conclusion
This World Rabies Day, BOSH Multispecialty Hospital encourages everyone to vaccinate their pets, avoid contact with stray or wild animals, and seek medical attention promptly after a bite. Together, we can work toward a world free of rabies.