Prevention Tips for RABIES

There are two categories of exposure to rabies-bites and non­bites. A nonbite is any scratch, abrasion, open wound, or mucous membrane that is contaminated with saliva from a rabid animal. An unprovoked bite is more likely to involve a rabid animal than is a provoked bite. One should be particularly wary of wild animals that are behaving abnormally during the day. Examples of abnormal behavior are attacks on humans or livestock, or the loss of fear of humans. If a bite occurs when the victim is feeding or handling an apparently healthy animal, the bite should be considered provoked. Again, local health authorities should be aware of the occurrence of rabies in the area and in the species of animal involved.

A bite or contaminated wound should be flushed and cleansed quickly, thoroughly, and repeatedly with soap and water. This should be followed by the application of alcohol or a 1 percent benzalkonium chloride solution to the sites. These measures alone may considerably decrease the likelihood of developing rabies. Rabies virus is communicable in animals for three to five days before signs of the disease develop, as well as during the course of the disease. Bats are the exception to this rule; they seem to survive the infection and can spread the virus for months. Thus, if the animal involved in an injury is a healthy dog or cat, it should be confined and observed by a veterinarian for a period of ten days. If the animal is a stray or unwanted dog or cat, or if it develops signs that could indicate rabies, it should be killed immediately and its head sent for examination. If the animal escapes, it may be necessary to assume that it was rabid. Health Department authorities should be consulted immediately. It is quite unlikely that an animal that has been immunized against rabies can contract the virus and spread it to other animals or humans.

Antirabies immunizations are rather prolonged, requiring daily injections for two to three weeks with additional boosters. The unpleasantness of these treatments is well known. Local reactions occur frequently and the individual may also feel gener­ally ill. This is a small price to pay, however, if this terrible and lethal disease can be prevented.