Rabies

  • A highly fatal viral disease mainly transmitted by bite of a rabid dog.
  • Humans can get the disease through bites of rabid dogs.
  • Wild carnivores and bats also present a considerable risk where the disease is prev­alent. The disease is endemic in India.

 

COMMON SYMPTOMS

  • Hyperexcitability.
  • Drooling of saliva
  • Peculiar hoarse sound (bellowing)
  • Aggression or paralysis
  • The animal dies within 24-48 hours after appearance of first sign, which may be mostly seen within 3 weeks or as late as 5-6 months of the dog bite. Once symp­toms are seen, death is inevitable.

PREVENTION

  • Wash the wound immediately in running water for 5-10 minutes.
  • Gently clean the wound with bath soap.
  • Consult a veterinarian immediately.
  • Carry out post-bite vaccination in suspected cases. (see chapter on vaccination)
  • Protect your pet dogs and cats against the disease through annual vaccination.

 

                                             Vaccinate in time to save your animal