Rabies in animals

Rabies in Animals

Rabies is a deadly virus that affects the central nervous system of mammals, including both domestic and wild animals. The virus is typically transmitted through the bite of an infected animal.

Transmission

The primary method of transmission of the rabies virus is through the bite of an infected animal. The virus is present in the saliva of infected animals and is transmitted to the bitten animal through the bite wound. Other less common methods of transmission include contamination of mucous membranes (such as the eyes or mouth), scratches from infected animals, and rarely, aerosol transmission.

Symptoms

The symptoms of rabies in animals can vary, but they usually include behavioral changes, excessive drooling, difficulty swallowing, paralysis, and ultimately, death. The disease can be divided into two forms: furious rabies, which is characterized by aggressive behavior, and dumb or paralytic rabies, which is characterized by weakness and loss of coordination.

Diagnosis

Diagnosis of rabies in animals is typically made post-mortem by detecting the rabies virus or rabies antigens in the brain of the animal. The most common diagnostic tests are the Fluorescent Antibody Test (FAT) and the Rabies Tissue Culture Infection Test (RTCIT).

Prevention and Control

Prevention and control of rabies in animals primarily involves vaccination. Rabies vaccines are available for most species of domestic animals and are often required by law. In addition to vaccination, control of rabies also involves reducing the population of stray animals and avoiding contact with wild animals.

Treatment

There is no effective treatment for rabies once clinical signs have appeared. The disease is almost always fatal. However, if exposure to rabies is suspected, immediate medical attention should be sought as post-exposure prophylaxis can prevent the onset of symptoms if administered promptly.

See Also

• Rabies in humans
• Rabies transmission
• Rabies vaccine
• Rabies diagnosis