What is Rabies?
- A severe, invariably fatal viral infection (polio encephalitis) of warm-blooded animals, including humans
How is it transmitted?
- Through a wound (bite) or via mucous membranes
- The virus replicates, and eventually spreads to the central nervous system
Systems affected
- Nervous
- Salivary glands contain large quantities of infectious virus particles that are distributed through saliva
What are the symptoms?
- Rabies has three progressive stages – prodromal, furious and paralytic
- Change in attitude and behaviour: nervousness, anxiety, unusual shyness or aggressiveness, biting or snapping, erratic behaviour
- Disorientation
- Copious salivation or foaming of the mouth
- Fever
How do I treat Rabies?
- Once the diagnosis is certain, there is no treatment – death is the result.
How do I prevent Rabies?
- Speak to your Veterinarian about rabies vaccinations; should be given every three years by law (in Ontario)
For more information on Rabies, visit World Rabies Day
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photo credit: Sebastián-Dario
