How is rabies transmitted from a dog? - briefly
Rabies is primarily transmitted through the saliva of an infected dog, often entering the body through a bite or scratch. The virus then travels along the nerves to the brain, where it multiplies and causes symptoms.
How is rabies transmitted from a dog? - in detail
Rabies is a viral disease that is primarily transmitted through the saliva of infected animals, with dogs being one of the most common carriers. The transmission process involves several key stages and mechanisms.
Firstly, rabies virus (RABV) resides in the salivary glands and brain of an infected animal. When a dog bites or scratches another animal or human, it introduces the virus into the wound through its saliva. The virus then travels along the nerves to the brain, where it replicates and causes neurological symptoms.
In detail, the transmission process can be broken down as follows:
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Viral Entry: The rabies virus enters the body of a new host primarily through bite wounds or scratches. The virus is highly neurotropic, meaning it specifically targets nerve cells.
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Nerve Transport: Once inside the body, the virus begins to move along the nerves towards the central nervous system (CNS). This journey can take anywhere from days to months, depending on the distance between the site of entry and the brain.
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Replication in CNS: Upon reaching the brain or spinal cord, the virus starts replicating within neurons. This stage is critical because it leads to the development of clinical signs of rabies.
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Salivary Gland Infection: As the infection progresses, the virus travels back from the CNS to the salivary glands. This reverse journey allows the infected animal to shed the virus in its saliva.
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Behavioral Changes: Infected dogs often exhibit behavioral changes such as aggression or unusual friendliness, which can increase the likelihood of transmitting the virus through bites.
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Shedding: The rabies virus is then shed in the animal's saliva, continuing the cycle of transmission when the infected dog bites another animal or human.
It's essential to note that rabies is almost always fatal once symptoms appear. However, prompt post-exposure prophylaxis (PEP), including vaccination and immunoglobulin administration, can prevent the disease from developing if given soon after exposure.
Education and awareness about the transmission of rabies are crucial for preventing this deadly disease. Regular vaccinations of pets, avoiding contact with stray or unknown animals, and seeking immediate medical attention after a potential exposure are all vital steps in controlling rabies transmission.