Rabies

27/12/2025   Share :        
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Introduction Rabies is an acute, fatal viral disease that affects the central nervous system of both humans and animals. The disease is most commonly transmitted through a bite or scratch from an infected animal and is considered one of the most dangerous zoonotic diseases. Despite the availability of effective vaccines, rabies remains a public health problem in many developing countries. Causative Agent Rabies is caused by a virus belonging to the family Rhabdoviridae, genus Lyssavirus. The virus has a cylindrical (bullet-shaped) structure and infects nerve cells, causing acute encephalitis. Modes of Transmission The rabies virus is usually transmitted through: • Bites from infected animals (the most common route) • Scratches on open skin • Licking of wounds or mucous membranes (mouth, eyes) The animals most commonly responsible for transmission include: • Dogs (the main global source) • Cats • Bats • Foxes and wolves Incubation Period The incubation period typically ranges from 1 to 3 months but may be shorter or longer depending on: • The location of the bite (its proximity to the brain) • The severity of the bite • The amount of virus transmitted Clinical Manifestations Rabies infection progresses through several stages: 1. Prodromal stage: o Fever o Headache o General fatigue o Pain or tingling at the bite site 2. Acute neurological stage: o Anxiety and agitation o Muscle spasms o Fear of water (hydrophobia) o Fear of air (aerophobia) o Excessive salivation 3. Coma and death stage: o Paralysis o Respiratory failure o Death within days if untreated Diagnosis Rabies is difficult to diagnose in its early stages. Diagnosis depends on: • Medical history (exposure to an animal bite) • Clinical examination • Special laboratory tests (PCR, antibody testing) Diagnosis is often confirmed after death. Treatment There is no curative treatment once symptoms appear; therefore, rabies is almost 100% fatal. Post-Exposure Prophylaxis (PEP): • Thorough washing of the wound with soap and water • Administration of rabies immunoglobulin (RIG) • Administration of the rabies vaccine in multiple doses Prevention Prevention is the cornerstone of rabies control and includes: • Vaccination of dogs and domestic animals • Control of stray dogs • Health education • Preventive vaccination for high-risk individuals (veterinarians, healthcare workers) Role of Nursing Nursing plays an important role in: • Health education about prevention • Providing first aid after animal bites • Monitoring vaccine administration • Providing psychological support to patients and their families Conclusion Rabies is a serious disease but is completely preventable when appropriate measures are taken in a timely manner. Health education, regular vaccination of animals, and rapid intervention after exposure are the foundation for reducing deaths caused by this disease. Al-Mustaqbal University is the First University in Iraq
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