Rabies is a dangerous and often fatal disease that is caused by a virus that affects the central nervous system (your brain and spinal cord). . In this article, we will discuss what rabies is, how it is spread, the symptoms of the disease, and what you can do to protect yourself and your loved ones.
What is Rabies and how is it spread?
Rabies is a virus that affects the central nervous system and is spread through the saliva of infected animals. It is a highly infectious disease that can be transmitted to humans and other animals through bites (namely their saliva) or scratches. It is most commonly spread through the bite of an infected animal, such as a dog, cat, bat, or raccoon. In some rare cases, rabies can also be transmitted through inhalation of aerosolized virus, such as from a bat cave, or through transplantation of infected tissues or organs. Rabies is found all over the world, but it is most common in developing countries where there is a lack of access to vaccines for both humans and animals.
Symptoms of Rabies
The symptoms of rabies can vary, but typically include fever, headache, muscle weakness, and seizures. As the disease progresses and remains untreated, more serious symptoms may develop, such as paralysis, delirium, and hallucinations. Rabies is often fatal if not treated within the first few days after exposure.
Protecting Yourself and Others from Rabies
The best way to protect yourself and others from rabies is to avoid exposure to the virus. This means avoiding contact with wild or stray animals, especially those that are acting strangely or aggressively. If you are bitten or scratched by an animal, it is important to wash the wound thoroughly with soap and water and seek medical attention immediately. If you are concerned about contact you may have had with an animal, you can contact us at Pulteney Pharmacy; we would be happy to advise. If you are traveling to areas where rabies is common, consider getting vaccinated before your trip. Pulteney Pharmacy offers the full course of Rabies vaccination. We are currently using the Rabipur brand of vaccination. Contact us today to book.
Vaccination
Rabies vaccine is a vaccine used to prevent rabies. The vaccine works by stimulating the body to produce an immune response against the rabies virus.
The recommended regimen for post-exposure prophylaxis (PEP) consists of a dose of vaccine on the day of exposure and additional doses on days 3, 7, and 14; additional treatment may be needed depending on your assessment .
For pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP), 3 doses are given on days 0, 7, and 21 or 28. An accelerated course of three doses on days 0, 3, and 7 may be given if there is insufficient time before travel to complete the 21–28 day course.
Pulteney Pharmacy offers pre-exposure prophylactic vaccinations. Check out our Travel Vaccine section for more information or contact us today.
Common side effects of the rabies vaccine include pain, redness, or swelling at the injection site, headache, nausea, abdominal pain, muscle aches, and fever. These side effects are usually mild and go away on their own within a few days.
It is important to seek medical attention immediately if you have been bitten or scratched by an animal that may have rabies, as prompt treatment with the rabies vaccine can prevent the development of the disease.
Conclusion
Rabies is a dangerous and often fatal disease that is spread through the bite or scratch of infected animals. It is important to take steps to protect yourself and others from exposure to the virus, such as avoiding contact with wild or stray animals and seeking medical attention if you are bitten or scratched. With the right precautions and vaccinations, you can reduce your risk of contracting rabies and help protect yourself and others.
Frequently asked questions:
How important is it to get Rabies vaccine:
Rabies vaccination important to protect yourself from rabies . Rabies is a fatal illness that almost always results in death if left untreated.
Worldwide an estimated 59,000 people die of rabies each year, with the majority of deaths occurring in Asia (59.6%) and Africa (36.4%) (WHO, 2018a). In the UK, deaths from classical rabies continue to occur in people infected abroad. Such instances are, however, rare, with 25 deaths having been reported since 1946,
How many rabies vaccine do I need to be fully protected:
You would need at least 3 doses of the vaccine within 28 days, there is also a rapid regime that could be given if it is appropriate.
What should I do if I get bitten?
As soon as possible after the incident, the wound should be cleaned by thorough flushing under a running tap for several minutes and washing with soap or detergent and water. A suitable disinfectant should be applied and the wound covered with a simple dressing. Suitable disinfectants include 40 to 70% alcohol, tincture or aqueous solution of povidone-iodine. Salivary exposures to mucous membranes such as eyes, nose or mouth should be washed thoroughly with clean water as soon as possible.
Seek medical emergency as soon as possible
What vaccine do you use for rabies vaccine?
We use Rabipur brand which is vaccinated in the upper arm into the muscle.
