World Rabies Day 2023 : World Rabies Day is celebrated every year on 28 September. Rabies is a viral infection that affects the central nervous system and can be spread to humans through the saliva of infected animals, usually through bites or scratches. Once symptoms appear it is almost always fatal. Rabies is a fatal disease that can affect all mammals, including humans, dogs and cats. Once symptoms appear, death occurs in most cases. Early symptoms of rabies may include fever, lethargy, and fever that can be confused with other illnesses. The best way to prevent rabies is to get vaccinated immediately if an unknown dog or cat bites you.
Rabies is a zoonotic disease with a mortality rate of 100%. Rabies virus infects the central nervous system of the affected animal causing disease in the brain and ultimately leading to death. It is important to get your pet regularly vaccinated for rabies. To avoid rabies infection, a person should also stay away from wild animals that can attack or bite. Rabies can cause significant behavioral abnormalities in animals and infected dogs and cats may display unusual aggression. It can be completely prevented through vaccination. On World Rabies Day, various organizations, governments and communities around the world come together to educate the public about rabies prevention, the importance of pet vaccinations and responsible pet ownership. They also highlight the efforts being made to eliminate rabies in many areas and the importance of post-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) for individuals exposed to the virus. The day commemorates the ongoing global efforts to eliminate rabies and protect both human and animal populations from this deadly disease.
The chosen date of World Rabies Day pays tribute to the French scientist, Louis Pasteur, who died on September 28, 1895. Pasteur was the creator of the rabies vaccine; mass dog vaccination is the most effective tool and the main course of action for the prevention of rabies in dogs. It is estimated that every year around 60,000 people die from it in the world, of which 40% are children. This year’s motto “One for All, One Health for All” highlights the need to implement an interregional and multidisciplinary approach with the contribution, intervention and collaboration of professional teams from the human, animal and environmental health sectors. Is. World Rabies Day highlights the importance of rabies prevention and awareness. Rabies is a deadly viral disease that can infect dogs, cats, and humans.
Symptoms of Rabies in Dogs and Cats
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Behavioral abnormalities: Rabies can cause significant behavioral abnormalities in animals. Infected dogs and cats show unusual aggression, agitation, or unpredictable behavior.
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Excessive salivation or foaming at the mouth is another typical symptom, which is sometimes caused by difficulty in swallowing.
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As the disease progresses, paralysis may develop, first in the hindquarters and then progressing to the front. This can lead to lack of coordination and making walking difficult.
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Seizures: Rabies can cause seizures in animals, which can be both distressing and life-threatening.
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Difficulty swallowing: Animals infected with rabies may have difficulty swallowing, resulting in a fear of water, or hydrophobia as a characteristic symptom.
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Changes in vocalization: Some suffering animals may exhibit strange vocalizations, which may be a sign of pain.
Pay attention to proper precautions and vaccination:
Rabies is a deadly disease, but it can be completely avoided with proper precautions and vaccination
Regular vaccination: Routine vaccination is the most effective strategy for preventing rabies in dogs and cats. A booster dose is required to maintain protection after the initial vaccination.
Keep vaccinations up to date: Check if your dog’s rabies vaccinations are up to date. Keep track of their vaccinations and schedule booster injections as your veterinarian suggests.
Prevent Risk: To keep your pets safe from rabies, keep them away from wildlife, stray animals, and unvaccinated pets.
Report suspected cases: If you think your pet has been exposed to rabies or is showing symptoms, call your veterinarian immediately.
Rabies is a zoonotic disease, meaning it can be transferred between people; Thus, precautions should be taken to avoid potential risks. It is important to prioritize rabies prevention through timely vaccination and good pet care.