Rabies is considered as a severe condition brought about by a virus. It is generally a disease of animals but can be passed on to humans if an animal infected by the disease bites. The virus is transmitted to humans via the saliva of the infected animal.
If bitten by an animal, it is vital to seek medical attention so that possible post-exposure treatment can be started.
What are the signs?
The signs might arise a few days after being bit by an infected animal. Nevertheless, in most cases, the symptoms might not manifest until weeks or months later.
One of the distinctive signs of rabies is twitching or tingling sensation in the muscles bordering the site of the animal bite. When the virus moves out of the local bite site, it moves to an adjacent nerve to the brain and trigger symptoms such as:
- Fatigue
- Pain
- Fever
- Headache
- Irritability
- Muscle spasms
One of the distinctive signs of rabies is twitching or tingling sensation in the muscles bordering the site of the animal bite. - Confusion
- Excessive movements
- Bizarre or erratic thoughts
- Aggressiveness or agitation
- Seizures
- Weakness or paralysis
- Hallucinations
- Difficulty speaking
- Increased production of tears or saliva
- Sensitivity to light, sounds or touch
Management
Rabies is a condition that can be treated and prevented with the rabies vaccine. This vaccine is comprised of killed rabies viruses. Remember that the vaccine will not trigger rabies.
In some cases, a specialized immune globulin can be given. Take note that starting treatment is vital. The doctor can determine if rabies immune globulin is necessary.