A Quick Look At Rabies - Causes and Treatment

Have you ever heard about Rabies? Rabies is a serious and fatal disease which is caused by a viral infection. This disease is basically transmitted by the infected animals or mammals. In the US, around 1 to 3 people contract rabies every year. According to the data, it is observed that there were 23 human cases in the US between 2008 to 2017. Out of which 8 cases were contracted outside the country. 

In the 1970s the vaccination of rabies was developed. The continuous efforts of the governments and regular vaccination programs have reduced the rabies cases, but even today, there are some cases of rabies that are seen in the US. Moreover, it is problem which is faced all over the world. Each year, more than 10,000 deaths result due to rabies around the world. It is mostly seen in the undeveloped areas of Southeast Asia and Africa. More than 95 % rabies infections are caused by the bite of dogs.

About Rabies- Rabies is a viral infection that mainly spreads through a bite or scratch from an infected animal or mammal. It can also be transmitted through the saliva of the infected which touch an open wound or touching mucous membranes. It is an RNA virus of the rhabdovirus family. If it is detected at a right time then it's treatment is possible, otherwise, it results in death. The viral infection affects the body in two ways.

• It enters the external nervous system (PNS) directly and transfers to the brain which affects the functioning of the brain.

• It can also enter in the nervous system through the neuromuscular junctions. If it enters in the neuron system then it produces acute inflammation of the brain that leads to coma and finally death.

Causes of the Rabies-

It is caused by the rabies virus. The virus infects the brain and finally leads to death. When a person is contacted with the rabies virus, this virus deposit in the muscle and subcutaneous tissue. Then it enters the nervous system and other parts of the body. In the US the rabies virus is commonly transmitted through the saliva of bats, raccoons, foxes, skunks, and coyotes. Stray dogs are the common mode through which it is transmitted. It is also found in the horses, cows, ferrets, and cats.

The only treatment for this is rabies vaccination. This is also included in travel vaccinations. If you want travel shots in NYC, contact- Travel Clinic Of New York City.