HomeWildlifeWildlife DiseasesRabies

Rabies

Rabies

Description

 
  • Rhabdovirus that is carried by certain carnivorous mammals and bats
Location

 
  • Worldwide, except Antarctica
Cause

 
  • Acute disease from a bite by an infected animal
  • Considered fatal
Symptoms

 
  • Brain infection
Treatment

 
  • Immediately scrub the wound with soap and water
  • Apply a strong first aid solution (such as iodine) or cream
  • Seek medical attention from a physician immediately
     
Prevention

 
  • Get vaccinated before possible contact with infected animals
  • Avoid contact with possible infected animals
Handling
Animals  
 
  • Wild animals may behave unusually
  • Dumb rabies: Causes tremors and convulsions
  • Furious rabies: Causes aggressive behavior before convulsions and paralysis set in
  • Behavioral changes:
    • Friendliness
    • Loss of fear
    • Appearance in the daytime (for nocturnal animals)
    • Unprovoked attacks
    • Bewilderment aimless wandering
    • Unusual barking, crying and frothing at the mouth
       
Other Facts

 
  • Can infect all warm-blooded animals
  • Most cases are from dogs and cats
  • Once infected, the virus spreads to the brain and then to other organs