What happens if you pet a rabid dog? - briefly
If you pet a rabid dog, you risk being bitten and contracting the rabies virus. Rabies is almost always fatal once symptoms appear, so immediate medical attention is crucial.
What happens if you pet a rabid dog? - in detail
If you pet a rabid dog, several serious consequences can occur due to the highly infectious nature of the rabies virus. Rabies is a viral disease that attacks the nervous system and is almost always fatal once symptoms appear. Here's what typically happens if you come into contact with a rabid dog:
Firstly, the rabies virus is primarily transmitted through the saliva of an infected animal, making direct contact with the dog's mouth or saliva particularly dangerous. If the dog bites you, even a minor bite can lead to infection. However, the virus can also enter your body through scratches, abrasions, or any exposed mucous membranes such as those in the eyes, nose, and mouth.
Upon contact with the rabies virus, it begins to replicate in the muscle tissue near the site of the bite or scratch. From there, it travels along the nerves towards the brain, a process that can take anywhere from a few days to several years, depending on the distance between the entry point and the brain. This long incubation period makes early detection challenging.
During this time, you may not experience any symptoms. However, once the virus reaches the brain, it starts to cause neurological symptoms that can be severe and life-threatening. These symptoms include fever, headache, weakness, and discomfort or a prickling or burning sensation at the site of the bite. As the disease progresses, more serious symptoms such as confusion, agitation, abnormal behavior, paralysis, and hallucinations may occur.
One of the most distinctive signs of rabies is hydrophobia—a fear of water. This symptom develops because swallowing causes the victim to experience difficulty and discomfort, leading to a spasm of the muscles in the throat. The disease progresses rapidly once symptoms appear, and death usually occurs within days if left untreated.
If you suspect that you have been exposed to rabies, it is crucial to seek medical attention immediately. Post-exposure prophylaxis (PEP) can prevent infection if administered promptly after exposure. PEP typically involves a course of vaccinations and, in some cases, the administration of immunoglobulin to provide passive immunity against the virus.
In conclusion, petting a rabid dog poses a significant health risk due to the highly infectious nature of the rabies virus. Prompt medical intervention is essential to prevent the onset of symptoms and save lives.