Rabies

Symptoms develop after an incubation period and involve the nervous system.

- fever, feeling unwell - pain or tingling at the wound site - anxiety or agitation - difficulty swallowing, excessive salivation - spasms, seizures, altered consciousness

Once symptoms begin, rabies is extremely difficult to treat. That is why immediate post‑exposure steps are critical: thorough wound washing and urgent medical assessment to start recommended post‑exposure prophylaxis when indicated.

Rabies may present with an agitated (furious) form or a paralytic form. Regardless of form, prevention after exposure is the most important measure.

Prevention includes avoiding contact with animals and, for some travelers, pre‑exposure vaccination (especially for long trips, remote travel, field work, and limited access to care).

Rabies occurs in many parts of the world. Travel risk depends on destination, potential contact with animals (including dogs, monkeys, and bats), and access to timely medical care.

Highest risk follows bites or scratches, contact with bats, prolonged stays in areas with limited healthcare access, and activities that increase animal contact.

- consider pre‑exposure vaccination for higher‑risk travel - always consult a clinician after exposure (bite/scratch/bat contact)

Diagnosis is based on symptoms and exposure history. Laboratory confirmation is complex and performed in specialized settings.

Prognosis depends primarily on timely and appropriate post‑exposure management. Early post‑exposure prophylaxis can effectively prevent disease.

This information is educational and does not replace medical advice. After possible rabies exposure, seek urgent medical care.