An extremely deadly disease, rabies is a condition that is carried through the saliva of infected animals.

The virus afflicts the central nervous system and is only found in mammals. HumanS are susceptible to this condition when they meet animals such as coyotes, raccoons, bats, and mongooses who carry the virus. Even pet animals such as goats, horses, cats, and dogs can carry the virus. It is in very rare cases that condition may be transmitted through a transplant of tissue or organ from an infected individual. Rabies ultimately affects the brain and causes an extremely dangerous disease which can lead to death.

In most cases, the disease is fatal as the individual begins to show signs and symptoms of the condition. The noticeable signs are not very different from that of a normal flu and can last for some days. They include vomiting, agitation, confusion, inability to swallow, hallucinating, insomnia, anxiety, nausea, headache and more. While it may not be easy to detect, it is best to visit the doctor immediately if one has been bitten or scratched by an animal or even exposed to one with rabies. After evaluation and understanding the type of exposure, the doctor will undertake the essential treatment to prevent the condition.

It serves well to understand the risk factors associated with rabies. Some of the most common factors that can increase the risk of the same include:

• Constantly being in contact with animals who could have rabies could increase the risk of contracting the condition. Activities such as camping and more that do not include protective measures to keep these animals away further increase the risk.
• People who work laboratories around the rabies virus are susceptible too.
• Even living or traveling across countries where rabies is a common condition can increase the risk. The virus is most common in developing countries.

Preventing rabies
While the first essential is to completely avoid contact with animals that are affected by the rabies virus, here are some more preventive measures to take:

Regular pet vaccination
Pet animals such as dogs, cats and ferrets can be given vaccines against rabies. The pets should be regularly taken to the vet’s clinic for a checkup. The veterinarian will also help in understanding how often the pet must be injected with the vaccine.

Ensure pets are confined
The pets should be confined within a protected area or supervised whenever they venture outside the house. This will help in keeping them away from wild animals who could transmit the virus.

Don’t let bats into the home
Bats should be kept out or prevented from entering the home. Any cracks or gaps in rooms must be sealed. It could also help to work with local experts on the best ways of sealing open spaces that could invite bats.

Keep away from wild animals
Wild animals who are affected by rabies are likely to be unafraid of human contact. These animals usually do not stray too close to people nut it might get close to friendly wild animals. Hence, it is best to stay away from these animals.

To avoid the risk of the condition, it is best for individuals to ensure the protection by receiving rabies vaccines.