Rabies- when human life is on the line 

Rabies is a deadly viral disease of mammals transmitted through the saliva of a rabid animal (bites, wound and mucus membranes contamination). The Rabies virus is found worldwide. Most Rabies cases are found in wildlife such as raccoons, skunks, bats, coyotes and foxes. Less then 10% of cases involve domestic animals account like cats, cattle, dogs and others.

The rabies virus infects the central nervous system, causing neurologic signs, such as seizures, behavioral alterations, vocalization and voice change, salivation, swallowing difficulty, paralysis and death. In the United States, human fatalities are mostly in people unaware of their exposure, who fails to seek medical assistance. Signs in humans begin with fever, headache, and general malaise. They then progress to insomnia, anxiety, confusion, slight or partial paralysis, excitation, hallucinations, agitation, hypersalivation, difficulty swallowing, and hydrophobia (fear of water). Death usually occurs within days of the onset of symptoms.

Once signs occur, (usually within ten days of exposure), there is no treatment for rabies. Post-exposure vaccinations, however, is effective if done promptly. It consists of a series of shots in the arm.

We are very successful in our rabies prevention program. Rabies control officials or constantly on the watch and are actively working on rabies eradication in wildlife. Our pets are being vaccinated nationwide and we have reached solid population immunity.

You can help keep this deadly disease away by following simple guidelines:

·         Ensure current vaccination of pet dogs, cats and ferrets.

·         Supervise your pet and avoid contact with stray animals.

·         Call animal control to remove stray and wild animals from your neighborhood.

·         Sick immediate veterinary attention for your pet in case of any animal bite or whenever they are “not acting right”.

·         Do not approach unfamiliar animals, especially if they exhibit unusual behavior (slow moving, not fearful, present in wrong places and times). That is especially important in case of wildlife.  No wildlife adoptions or sick animals nursing either.

·         Do not make food available to wild animals such as raccoons, skunks and coyotes. Avoid leaving pet food outdoors. Keep garbage covered and secured.

·         Teach and instruct children to follow these roles.

“An once of prevention is worth a pound of cure” is life saving is case of rabies.