What will happen to a person if bitten by a rabid dog? - briefly
If a person is bitten by a rabid dog, they risk contracting rabies, a fatal viral disease that affects the central nervous system unless immediate medical treatment, including vaccination, is administered.
What will happen to a person if bitten by a rabid dog? - in detail
If a person is bitten by a rabid dog, the consequences can be severe and potentially fatal if immediate medical intervention is not sought. Rabies is a viral disease that primarily affects the central nervous system, and the virus is transmitted through the saliva of an infected animal, typically via a bite. Upon entering the body, the rabies virus travels along peripheral nerves to the brain, where it begins to replicate and cause inflammation. The incubation period varies widely, ranging from a few weeks to several months, depending on factors such as the location of the bite, the amount of virus transmitted, and the individual's immune response. Initial symptoms may resemble those of the flu, including fever, headache, and general weakness. As the disease progresses, more specific symptoms emerge, such as anxiety, confusion, agitation, and difficulty swallowing. A hallmark of rabies is hydrophobia, an intense fear of water caused by painful spasms in the throat when attempting to drink. Neurological symptoms escalate rapidly, leading to hallucinations, paralysis, and eventually coma. Once clinical signs appear, rabies is almost invariably fatal, with death usually occurring within days due to respiratory failure. The only way to prevent the onset of rabies after a bite is through prompt post-exposure prophylaxis (PEP), which includes thorough wound cleaning, administration of rabies immunoglobulin, and a series of rabies vaccinations. Immediate medical attention is critical, as delaying treatment significantly reduces the chances of survival. Public health measures, such as vaccinating domestic animals and controlling stray populations, are essential in preventing the spread of rabies. Awareness of the risks and understanding the urgency of treatment are vital in mitigating the devastating impact of this disease.