How is rabies transmitted from a dog to a person, symptoms? - briefly
Rabies is a viral disease that can be transmitted from a dog to a person primarily through the bite of an infected animal. The virus is present in the saliva of the infected dog and enters the human body through broken skin or mucous membranes. Symptoms of rabies in humans typically begin with non-specific signs such as fever, headache, and general weakness. As the disease progresses, more specific symptoms appear, including:
- Insomnia
- Anxiety
- Confusion
- Agitation
- Abnormal behavior
- Paralysis
- Hydrophobia (fear of water)
- Difficulty swallowing
Once symptoms appear, rabies is almost always fatal. It is crucial to seek immediate medical attention if a person has been bitten by a dog, especially if the dog's vaccination status is unknown. Prompt administration of post-exposure prophylaxis can prevent the onset of symptoms and save the person's life.
How is rabies transmitted from a dog to a person, symptoms? - in detail
Rabies is a severe viral infection that affects the central nervous system and is almost always fatal once symptoms appear. The virus is primarily transmitted through the bite of an infected animal, with dogs being one of the most common vectors. When a dog is infected with rabies, the virus is present in its saliva. Transmission occurs when the infected saliva comes into direct contact with a human's mucous membranes or broken skin. This typically happens through a bite, but it can also occur through scratches or, less commonly, when infected saliva comes into contact with the eyes, nose, or mouth.
The rabies virus travels from the site of the bite or scratch along the nerves to the brain, where it causes inflammation and ultimately leads to the fatal symptoms associated with the disease. The incubation period, which is the time from exposure to the onset of symptoms, can vary widely, ranging from a few days to several months, depending on the location and severity of the bite. In general, the closer the bite is to the brain, the shorter the incubation period.
Symptoms of rabies in humans typically begin with non-specific flu-like symptoms, such as fever, headache, and general weakness. As the virus progresses, more specific neurological symptoms develop. These can include:
- Insomnia
- Anxiety
- Confusion
- Agitation
- Abnormal behavior
- Paralysis
- Hydrophobia (fear of water)
- Aerophobia (fear of drafts or wind)
Once these symptoms appear, the disease is almost always fatal. There is no effective treatment for rabies once symptoms have developed. However, prompt post-exposure prophylaxis (PEP) can prevent the onset of symptoms and save lives. PEP involves a series of vaccinations and, in some cases, the administration of rabies immunoglobulin. This treatment must be initiated as soon as possible after exposure to be effective.
Prevention is crucial in managing the risk of rabies. Vaccinating dogs and other domestic animals is a primary strategy for controlling the spread of the disease. Additionally, avoiding contact with stray or wild animals and seeking immediate medical attention after any animal bite or scratch are essential preventive measures. Public health education and awareness campaigns also play a significant role in reducing the incidence of rabies by informing people about the risks and necessary precautions.