Rabies is a serious, life-threatening viral disease that affects mammals, including humans. While it is more common in animals, humans can contract rabies through contact with the saliva of an infected animal, typically through bites or scratches. This makes getting an anti-rabies vaccine crucial after any animal bite to prevent the deadly consequences of rabies.
How is rabies transmitted?
Rabies is most often transmitted through the saliva of an infected animal. This can occur through a bite, scratch, or even when an infected animal licks an area of broken skin. In many countries, including the Philippines, dogs are the main carriers of the rabies virus, but other animals such as cats, cows, and even monkeys can also be sources of infection. It’s important to remember that once symptoms of rabies appear, the disease is almost always fatal, making prompt action critical after a bite.
Why is the anti-rabies vaccine necessary?
The rabies vaccine is the most effective form of protection after exposure to the virus. If administered during the incubation period, which is the time before symptoms appear, the vaccine can prevent the virus from progressing into the rabies disease. According to experts, the protocol for someone exposed to rabies, but not previously vaccinated, involves receiving four doses of the rabies vaccine over 14 days along with rabies immunoglobulin. For those who have already been vaccinated, only two additional doses of the vaccine are typically required. The sooner the vaccine is administered, the better the chances of preventing the disease.
What should you do after an animal bite?
After being bitten by an animal, the first thing you should do is thoroughly clean the wound. Washing the affected area with soap and warm water helps flush out potential sources of infection. Afterward, seek immediate medical care. Even if you’ve been previously vaccinated, medical professionals may recommend booster doses of the vaccine to further protect you from developing rabies.
It’s important to note that prevention is key, and ensuring your dog receives their regular anti-rabies vaccine for dogs is crucial for protecting both them and you from this deadly disease.
At SureVax Animal Bite Centers, we provide post-exposure rabies vaccinations to ensure that you get the urgent care you need. Whether you were bitten by a dog, cat, or any other potentially rabid animal, you can trust our trained medical staff to follow the proper vaccination protocol. If you’re not near one of our centers, visit the nearest available animal bite center for prompt treatment.
What are the symptoms of rabies?
Symptoms of rabies can take days, weeks, or even months to appear after infection. Early signs include fever, fatigue, and irritability. As the virus progresses, more severe symptoms like seizures, hallucinations, and paralysis can occur. At this point, rabies is almost always fatal if untreated. That’s why it’s essential to act quickly after any possible rabies exposure.
Side effects of the rabies vaccine
Most people tolerate the rabies vaccine well. Common side effects include mild swelling, soreness, or itching at the injection site. Some people may experience headaches or nausea, but these symptoms are typically short-lived. In rare cases, more severe side effects, such as fever or difficulty breathing, may occur, requiring medical attention.
In conclusion, getting an anti-rabies vaccine after any animal bite is crucial to prevent rabies, a fatal disease if left untreated. Always seek immediate care and visit your nearest SureVax Animal Bite Center or any other vaccination center to ensure you receive the correct treatment.
Source: Bumrungrad International Hospital, “Q&A: Rabies Prevention and Vaccine.” January 2020.
Anti-Rabies Vaccine (Pre-Exposure)
