Rabies is one of the deadliest diseases and spreads mostly through the bite of infected dogs. However, the condition is preventable as its transmission can be stopped via dog vaccinations. Most of the developed countries have controlled or eliminated the cases of canine rabies by running mass dog vaccination programmes. But developing countries still report a high number of rabies cases. In Africa, approximately 21,000 - 25,000 deaths occur every year due to rabies. Therefore, there is a massive need for education and awareness about the subject among African citizens. Continue reading to find everything you need to know about rabies. 

Q1. How is rabies transmitted? 

When an animal with rabies bites or scratches a human, they can transfer the infection to the person. 99% of the cases occur due to a dog bite. Note that the infection does not spread by petting an infected animal. 

Q2. What happens if a person is infected with rabies? 

The rabies virus attacks the nerve cells and eventually, the brain. The symptoms of rabies do not appear immediately, rather, may take a couple of months to appear. Once its clinical symptoms start appearing, the condition becomes virtually fatal. Therefore, one should not wait and see a doctor immediately when they are bitten by a stray or wild animal. 

Q3. What should a person do if they are bitten or scratched by an animal? 

Usually, post-exposure prophylaxis (PEP), the immediate rabies treatment is carried out which prevents the virus from entering the nervous system. PEP involves washing the wound or the affected area with soap and water for at least five minutes. After that, a visit to a doctor is necessary for them to administer the rabies vaccine as per the WHO standards. The administration of rabies immunoglobulin (RIG) may also be required in some cases. This immediate treatment plan is quite effective and exponentially reduces the chances of the onset of the disease. 

Q4. How can rabies be prevented? 

Though immensely fatal, rabies can be completely prevented by taking simple measures. 

• Vaccinating dogs is one of the most effective ways to prevent the transmission of rabies. So, if you have a pet dog, get them timely vaccinated to prevent the condition. 
• By being aware of the consequences of dog bites and other wild animal bites, one can avoid such encounters. Awareness about rabies also helps one to seek immediate medical treatment if such an incidence occurs and thus, prevent the development of the disease. 
• Pre-exposure immunisation for humans is also available to prevent rabies. People who are at a high risk of contracting rabies, such as laboratory workers and those working with animals, should go for pre-exposure immunisation. 

The Bottom Line 

WHO aims to achieve “zero human deaths from dog-mediated rabies by 2030.” To drive progress towards this mission, awareness among the masses and large-scale dog vaccinations are a must. HJ Hospitals is working to boost the Congo healthcare system by spreading awareness and making the citizens of DR Congo health conscious. Join our mission and share the information with your family and friends to step towards a healthier life. To access world-class medical facilities, such as a blood bank, diagnostic centre, physiotherapy, ambulance service, home care service etc., in your proximity, contact us at 4309.