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Rabies
Rabies is fatal neurotropic virus almost always transmitted by an animal bite that inoculates the virus into wounds. All mammals are believed to be susceptible, but carnivores and bats are the groups most susceptible to the disease. Although it differs from region to region, dogs are the main reservoir in developing countries.
Affected Areas:
Rabies is found on all continents except
for Antarctica. In certain areas, canine rabies
remains highly endemic. These locations include
parts of Brazil, Bolivia, Colombia, Ecuador,
El Salvador, Guatemala, India, Mexico, Nepal,
Peru, the Philippines, Sri Lanka, Thailand,
and Vietnam. The disease is also found in most
of the countries in Africa, Asia, and Central
America.
Symptoms:
The symptoms of rabies work in a progression of stages. They are:
- Paralysis
- Spasms of swallowing muscles can be stimulated by the sight, sound, or perception of water (aka hydrophobia)
- Delirium
- Convulsions
- Coma
- Death
Treatment and Prevention:
As with many diseases and viruses, there is a vaccine. There are three
different vaccines available. They include: pre-exposure vaccination with
human diploid cell, purified chick embryo cell vaccine, and rabies vaccine
absorbed. The pre-exposure vaccine is recommended for veterinarians, animal
handlers, field biologists, missionaries, and certain laboratory workers.
This particular vaccine does not eliminate the need for additional medical
attention after rabies exposure but does simplify the matter.
The types of diseases vary with each destination. After browsing through this site you may also call or email Travel Health Help for more detailed information: 1-888-621-3952
