Rabies is a viral disease that has the potential to be transmitted to humans from animals. It can also be transmitted from one animal to another.

In most instances, transmission occurs as a direct result of a bite, however, it may also be transmitted through scratches, cuts, and other openings on the skin as a result of infected saliva coming into contact with an opening on the skin.

It detrimentally impacts the central nervous system of the affected. The most common of animals known to transmit rabies include raccoons, bats, skunks, foxes, and coyotes. In some instances, dogs, cats, and other animals may transmit the disease if it has been transmitted to them.

Here, you will learn 5 facts that you need to know about rabies.

1. Animals Do Not Always Display Symptoms

Despite common belief, not all animals display the typical “foaming at the mouth” that is commonly associated with rabies. Many may exhibit a change in behavior, become withdrawn, or simply experience paralysis that cannot be explained.

Symptoms may be as minute as eating unusual objects, chewing on where the infection entered the body, or becoming hypersensitive to surroundings.

2. Nearly 60,000 People Die a Year from Rabies

While nearly all cases of human rabies occur in Asia and Africa, almost 60,000 people a year actually die from the disease. Out of these cases, nearly all infections were caused by dogs.

3. Rabies Progresses in a Total of Five Stages

Once the rabies infection is present in the body, the progression of the disease includes a total of five stages. These are the incubation period, the prodrome stage, the neurological stage, coma, and then, finally, death.

4. Rabies Causes a Fear of Water

In its earliest days, rabies was often referred to as “hydrophobia” because the disease actually appeared to cause one to become frightened of water. Medical professionals believe that this is due to the spasms that occur when one tries to swallow.

The disease is known to create excessive saliva in the mouth and throat region. This is likely due to the neurological impact of the illness. The fear is so intense that many are actually scared at the thought of swallowing.

5. Pets Are More Likely to Transmit Rabies to Humans

Most people believe that rabies is mostly transmitted to humans by wildlife. While wildlife does transmit the illness to people, it is more likely to be transmitted by pets. This is because humans interact more closely with pets than with animals in the wild.

For this reason, it is essential that you make certain that your pets are vaccinated. This will help to prevent transmission.

If you have wildlife in or around your home, you should contact us for wildlife remediation. This will help to ensure that your pets, loved ones, and you are protected against becoming infected with rabies or any wildlife virus.

For more information, contact us today at: 855-465-1088