Information on Rabies

Rabies is a disease of the central nervous system. All mammals are susceptible to contracting the disease. Rabies can be fatal if left untreated.

Symptoms

• Common symptoms of rabies include fever, headache, agitation, anxiety, confusion, difficulty swallowing, excessive salivation, fear of water, hallucinations, insomnia and paralysis.

Effects

• Once an animal or human begins to exhibit symptoms, the disease is usually fatal.

Prevention/Solution

• Vaccines exist that prevent the spread of rabies and are required by law in all companion mammals.

Transmission

• Rabies is transmitted by coming in contact with infected bodily fluids such as saliva, cerebrospinal fluids and blood.

Treatment

• Treatment in humans consists of an initial injection at the spot of contamination to prevent the disease from spreading and a series of rabies vaccinations to help your body's immune response.