Can rabies be fatal?

After entering the body, the virus can move along nerves toward the brain and spinal cord. Early signs may be fever, headache, tiredness, or unusual sensations near the wound. Later illness may cause confusion, agitation, difficulty swallowing, sensitivity to air or water, weakness, paralysis, and breathing failure. The seriousness of rabies does not mean every animal contact is an exposure; the route of contact must be assessed.

Wash a bite or scratch immediately with soap and running water, then seek urgent medical care. A clinician can assess the animal and exposure and prescribe post-exposure prophylaxis when indicated. This may include vaccine and rabies immunoglobulin. Do not apply irritating chemicals, close the wound yourself, or wait for the animal or your body to provide reassurance.

Any possible bite, scratch, or saliva contact with broken skin or mucous membranes deserves prompt assessment, especially after bat contact or an encounter with an unavailable mammal. Emergency care is needed for neurological changes after a possible exposure, including confusion, trouble swallowing, weakness, or breathing difficulty. Preventive decisions are time-sensitive even when you feel well.

Ask whether your exposure requires vaccine, immunoglobulin, or both; how quickly treatment should begin; and which symptoms should trigger emergency review.