According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) rabies is a viral disease that affects the nervous system and is almost always fatal. The virus is usually spread through the bite of an infected animal but it can also be spread through contact with an infected animal’s saliva or nervous tissue.
Rabies is most commonly found in wild animals like bats raccoons skunks and foxes but it can also affect domesticated animals like dogs cats and cattle. There are very few cases of rabies in humans but it is still a serious concern. The CDC recommends that people who are bitten or scratched by an animal suspected of having rabies should see a doctor immediately.
There is no specific test for rabies in rats but the virus can be detected in the brain of a dead rat. Rabies is not common in rats but it is possible for them to contract the disease if they are bitten by an infected animal. There is no cure for rabies so it is important to take precautions to avoid being bitten or scratched by an animal that may be infected.
What is rabies?
Rabies is a virus that attacks the central nervous system.
What animals can get rabies?
Any mammal can get rabies.
How do animals get rabies?
They can get it through a bite from another animal that has rabies.
What are the symptoms of rabies in animals?
The symptoms can vary depending on the animal but generally include restlessness excessive drooling paralysis and sometimes aggression.
How long does it take for an animal to show symptoms of rabies after being infected?
It can take anywhere from a few days to a couple of months.
Can humans get rabies?
Yes humans can get rabies if they are bitten by an animal that has the virus.
What are the symptoms of rabies in humans?
Early symptoms of rabies in humans include fever headache and general weakness.
As the virus progresses it can cause seizures hallucinations and paralysis.
How long does it take for humans to show symptoms of rabies after being infected?
The incubation period for rabies in humans is typically two to twelve weeks but can be as short as a few days or as long as a year.
Is there a cure for rabies?
There is no cure for rabies once symptoms have begun.
Treatment is focused on relieving symptoms and supporting the patient until the virus run its course which is typically two to three weeks.
How do you prevent rabies?
The best way to prevent rabies is to avoid contact with animals that may carry the virus such as wild animals or unvaccinated dogs and cats.
If you are bitten by an animal wash the wound immediately with soap and water and seek medical attention.
What is the prognosis for rabies?
The prognosis for rabies is very poor once symptoms have begun.
The virus is almost always fatal with death typically occurring within two to three weeks.
How many people die from rabies each year?
Worldwide it is estimated that rabies kills over 59000 people each year.
Where is rabies most common?
Rabies is most common in Africa and Asia.
What animals are most often responsible for transmitting rabies to humans?
Dogs are the most common source of rabies transmission to humans followed by bats.
How can you tell if an animal has rabies?
There is no one definitive way to tell if an animal has rabies as symptoms can vary and may not be present until the disease is in its later stages.
If you suspect an animal has rabies it is best to avoid contact and contact your local animal control or health department for assistance.
