Rabies is an extremely serious viral infectious disease that affects the central nervous system of mammals, including humans. Caused by a virus from the Lyssavirus genus, the infection is almost always fatal once clinical symptoms appear. That’s why prevention and immediate treatment after exposure are essential to saving lives.
In this article, you’ll learn how rabies is transmitted, its main symptoms, what to do in case of a bite, and some common myths that still surround this deadly disease.
What Is Rabies?
Rabies is a viral zoonosis — a disease transmitted from animals to humans. The virus attacks the brain and spinal cord, causing severe inflammation that leads to death in nearly 100% of symptomatic cases. Although it is a preventable disease through vaccination, rabies still causes thousands of deaths worldwide, especially in areas with limited access to public health services.
How Is Rabies Transmitted?
Rabies is primarily transmitted through the bite, scratch, or lick of an infected animal onto broken skin or mucous membranes. The virus is present in the saliva of the infected animal even before symptoms appear. The most common route of transmission to humans is through the bite of unvaccinated dogs, but many other animals can also carry the virus.
Animals That Can Transmit Rabies
Here are some of the main animals known to transmit rabies to humans:
Dogs
Cats
Bats (especially blood-feeding species)
Monkeys
Foxes
Skunks
Raccoons
Cattle and horses (rare, but possible if infected)
Even pets or livestock can spread rabies if they have not been properly vaccinated and become infected.
Symptoms of Rabies in Humans
Symptoms typically appear between 2 to 8 weeks after exposure, though the incubation period can vary. Early symptoms are nonspecific, making diagnosis difficult in the initial stages:
Fever
General discomfort
Headache
Tingling or pain at the bite site
As the disease progresses, neurological symptoms develop:
Anxiety and agitation
Muscle spasms
Difficulty swallowing (hydrophobia)
Hallucinations
Paralysis
Seizures
Coma and death
Once neurological symptoms appear, the disease is almost always irreversible.
What to Do if Exposed to Rabies
If you are bitten or scratched by an animal that could be infected:
Wash the wound thoroughly with soap and water for at least 15 minutes.
Seek medical attention immediately.
Inform healthcare providers about the animal involved — whether it was known, vaccinated, or escaped.
Post-exposure vaccination can prevent disease if started promptly.
In some cases, anti-rabies immunoglobulin (rabies serum) may be required.
Rabies Prevention
The most effective way to prevent rabies is through the vaccination of domestic animals, especially dogs and cats. Additional key preventive measures include:
Avoid contact with wild or unfamiliar animals
Never touch bats, even if they appear dead
Vaccinate individuals at occupational risk (veterinarians, wildlife workers, etc.)
Always seek medical care after any animal bite — even minor ones
Myths and Facts About Rabies
“If the animal looks healthy, there’s no risk.”
❌ Myth. Animals can transmit the virus even before showing symptoms. A 10-day observation period is essential in case of a bite.
“Rabies is only transmitted by dogs.”
❌ Myth. Many mammals can spread rabies, including bats, cats, and even horses.
“If several days have passed since the bite, it’s too late for the vaccine.”
❌ Myth. Vaccination can still be beneficial after a few days, depending on medical assessment.
“Superficial wounds aren’t dangerous.”
❌ Myth. Even minor injuries can transmit the virus if contaminated with saliva from an infected animal.
“Can human bites transmit rabies?”
❌ Myth! While rabies is not transmitted via human bites, human bites are among the most dangerous due to the risk of bacterial infection. Human saliva contains bacteria like Staphylococcus aureus, Streptococcus spp., and Eikenella corrodens, which can cause serious soft tissue, joint, or even bone infections. Bites — especially to the hands, wrists, or near joints — require prompt medical attention and may need deep cleaning, antibiotics, or even surgery. These injuries should never be ignored, even if they look mild.
Conclusion
Rabies is a deadly but fully preventable disease with proper vaccination and swift medical care after exposure. Recognizing the warning signs, seeking help immediately, and keeping pets vaccinated are critical steps in eliminating this global health threat. Dispelling common myths also helps build a more informed and safer society.
