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Rabies Virus: Rabies is a dangerous viral disease. This disease is spread by the bite or scratch of an infected animal. It is also called Lyssavirus. The time between exposure to the rabies virus and the onset of symptoms can range from 5 days to 2 years. In humans its duration is 20-60 days. But its time limit may be less in children. There are some cases in which symptoms of this disease appear even after seven years.
These are the symptoms of this disease
Symptoms include fever, anxiety, restlessness, tingling and severe itching at the bite site, and neurological symptoms such as hyperactivity and paralysis.
WHO took these steps to prevent rabies
Rabies is a serious public health problem in more than 150 countries and territories. It is a viral, zoonotic, tropical disease that causes thousands of deaths every year, mainly in Asia and Africa. In which 40% of such cases are children below 15 years of age. 99% of human rabies cases are caused by dog bites and scratches. Dog bites can be prevented by getting vaccinated.
Once this virus infects the nervous system of the body, its symptoms start appearing in daily life. Rabies is fatal in 100% of cases. However, rabies deaths can be prevented with immediate post-exposure prophylaxis (PEP) by preventing the virus from reaching the nervous system. PEP includes thorough wound washing, a course of human rabies vaccine, and rabies immunoglobulin (RIG) when indicated.
If a person is bitten or scratched by a potentially rabid animal, they should immediately and always seek PEP care. WHO and its global partners aim to prevent human deaths from canine rabies, including by promoting mass vaccination of dogs. Bite prevention includes ensuring access to PEP, health worker training, improved surveillance and community awareness.