Rabies is a perilous disease that spreads among both animals and humans. Affecting vital organs, this disease is incurable.
What is Rabies?
Rabies is an infection that causes inflammation of the brain in animals and humans. The disease is transmitted through the bite and saliva of an infected animal. Nearly all mammals, including cats and dogs, can be carriers.
How Dangerous is Rabies for Humans and Animals?
Once in the body, the virus spreads through the nervous system, attacking the brain. According to the World Health Organization (WHO) studies, around 55,000 people die from rabies each year, 40% of whom are children under 15. Rabies is untreatable in animals, which makes prevention critical.
How do Animals Contract Rabies?
Cats and dogs are more susceptible to rabies than humans. The primary mode of transmission is through saliva and bites, but it can also spread:
The disease quickly spreads among stray animals, as evidenced by the rabies epidemic in Bali. There are around 540,000 infected stray dogs on the island. In 2010, 11 cases of human rabies infections were reported each month. The government of Bali is now culling stray dogs and has prohibited tourists from bringing in animals.
- Via airborne droplets;
- Through nasal and eye discharges;
- Through food.
The disease quickly spreads among stray animals, as evidenced by the rabies epidemic in Bali. There are around 540,000 infected stray dogs on the island. In 2010, 11 cases of human rabies infections were reported each month. The government of Bali is now culling stray dogs and has prohibited tourists from bringing in animals.
Primary Symptoms of Rabies in Cats and Dogs:
- Inflammation at the Bite Site: If bitten by an infected animal, noticeable redness and swelling will occur around the wound.
- Foaming at the Mouth and Increased Salivation: Foaming is rare, but salivation does increase due to difficulty in swallowing, as the throat muscles become paralyzed. A visible sign is the animal's fear of water.
- Dilated Pupils: The pupils are an indicator of the animal's heightened state of excitement.
- Sleep Disturbance: Due to pain and agitation, the pet is unable to sleep and often wakes up during the night.
- Loss of Appetite: The infection can affect the digestive tract, making the pet refuse its favorite treats and potentially not eat at all for a day.
- Increased Temperature and Heart Rate: The pet may experience intense shivering, shortness of breath, and intermittent spasms.
Impact of Rabies on Animal Behavior:
When infected with rabies, an animal's behavior can change dramatically depending on the stage of the disease.
- Tactile Behavior in the First Stage (1-3 days): Dogs and cats often attempt to lick their owners, leading to transmission. Unprompted barking or meowing and high levels of activity are also common; the animal may stand up and fall down repeatedly or walk in circles.
- Aggressiveness in the Second Stage (3-4 days): The animal becomes highly agitated and may attack its owners or other pets in the house. The pet may bite its own paws and tail and may attempt to escape the home.
Transmission of Rabies to Humans:
Humans are less susceptible to rabies. The primary source of infection is a bite, but the chance of contracting the disease is only 30%. Nonetheless, medical attention should be sought immediately after a bite, as untreated cases lead to paralysis and death.
Bite Prevention Measures for Humans:
- Clean the Bite Wound: Rinse the wound with warm water and soap. Additionally, apply an antiseptic.
- Consult a Doctor for Vaccination: Six doses of the vaccine are administered over three months. Additionally, inquire about a tetanus vaccine.
Veterinary Measures to Prevent Rabies:
- Vaccination: Pets should be vaccinated against rabies annually. The vaccine significantly reduces the chance of infection. The first vaccine should be administered at 12-13 weeks after birth and then once a year afterward.
- Quarantine: If symptoms of rabies are observed, the best course of action is to send the animal to a clinic for quarantine. The quarantine period lasts 7-10 days. If the pet does not develop rabies during this time, it is returned to you and receives a vaccination.