What should you know about World Rabies Day?

Rabies is a serious viral infection that can be spread through the saliva of an infected animal, commonly when saliva enters a bite, scratch, or broken skin. The condition presents after an exposure rather than being identified by the appearance of a wound alone. An animal may look well, so do not judge risk only by its behaviour.

Prevention includes avoiding contact with unfamiliar animals, teaching children not to approach animals they do not know, and keeping pets’ vaccinations up to date according to local veterinary advice. Travel plans may also change the animal exposures you could encounter.

Wash a bite or scratch thoroughly with soap and running water straight away. Do not delay medical assessment while waiting to see whether you develop symptoms or whether the animal can be found. Tell the clinician where and when the exposure happened, the animal involved, whether skin was broken, and any previous rabies vaccination.

Rabies post-exposure prophylaxis may include wound care, vaccination, and other treatment depending on the exposure and your history. A clinician will decide the appropriate plan.

Seek urgent medical care after any possible bite, scratch, or saliva contact with broken skin or the eyes, mouth, or nose from an animal that could carry rabies. Go promptly if a wound is deep, bleeding heavily, painful, swollen, or near the face or hands. Emergency care is also needed for signs of a severe allergic reaction after any treatment.

Ask whether your exposure needs post-exposure prophylaxis, what wound care you need, and when you should return for further doses if they are advised. Before travel, ask whether preventive rabies vaccination suits your itinerary and planned activities.