Rabies: An ancient viral disease known for thousands of years, it remains a global health problem, particularly in developing countries. It is estimated that tens of thousands die annually from this disease, mostly from bites by infected dogs. The disease has a near 100% mortality rate once symptoms appear, making prevention and early intervention crucial. Causative Agent Rabies is caused by the rabies virus, which: Belongs to the family Rhabdoviridae Genre Lyssavirus Is a single-stranded RNA virus Has a rod-shaped (lead-shaped) form The virus is characterized by its ability to infect nerve cells and travel via peripheral nerves to the central nervous system. Transmission Methods Rabies virus is primarily transmitted through: The bite of an infected animal The saliva of an infected animal upon contact with open wounds or mucous membranes (mouth, eyes) Rarely through scratches or inhalation of aerosols in laboratories Common carrier animals: Dogs (the primary global carrier) Cats Foxes Wolves Bats Raccoons Incubation period Ranges from weeks to several months Depending on: Bite location (proximity to the brain) Severity of the bite Amount of virus injected Immune status of the infected person Clinical symptoms First: In animals The infection progresses through stages: Prodromal stage: Behavioral changes, loss of appetite Excitable stage: Aggression, biting, excessive salivation Paralytic stage: Paralysis of the limbs, then death Second: In humans Fever, headache, general fatigue Pain or itching at the bite site Fear of water (hydrophobia) Convulsions Muscular Hallucinations and neurological disorders Coma followed by death Diagnosis In animals Post-mortem brain histology Detection of Negri bodies PCR and immunofluorescence techniques In humans Saliva and cerebrospinal fluid testing PCR Serological tests Often based on medical history (animal bite) Treatment There is no cure once symptoms appear. Treatment is limited to: Post-exposure prophylaxis Cleaning the wound thoroughly with soap and water Administering rabies antitoxin Administering vaccinations according to a set schedule Prevention and control Regular vaccination of pets Strand dog control Community health education Vaccination of at-risk individuals (veterinarians, laboratory workers) Immediate reporting of bites Health and economic importance Fateful health threat to humans Economic losses in livestock Burden on health systems A controllable disease through prevention and vaccination Conclusion Rabies is a serious viral disease Rabies is a zoonotic disease, meaning it can be transmitted between humans and animals. However, it is entirely preventable through vaccination and early post-exposure intervention. Strengthening control programs and public health education is the cornerstone of reducing the spread of this deadly disease. References (Examples) World Health Organization (WHO). Rabies Fact Sheet. OIE. Rabies Manual of Diagnostic Tests. CDC. Rabies: Epidemiology and Prevention
  مقاله علمية حول مرض السعار طريقة العدوى والمسبب المرضي وطريقة السيطرة على المرض