When Animals Bite: A Rabies Guide

The rabies virus is a viral infection of particular warm blooded animals. Belonging in the family of Rhabdoviridae virus, it attacks the body’s nervous system, and could be fatal if left untreated. Most household pets can have this virus, such as dogs and cats. But with constant care and shots, the rabies virus can be controlled.

The virus enters the body through a scratch or cut, and travels all the way to the body’s central nervous system. After it has established itself in the brain, it then travels forward and multiplies in the body’s organs. Rabies can also be transmitted from animal to animal through their salivary glands. When bitten, a person must be able to know how to clean the wound and be aware of the possible symptoms that might occur.

Household pets tend to bite due to their defense mechanism. When an immunized pet bites, you should immediately apply pressure to release the infected blood and wash the wound with soap and water for at least five minutes. After washing, apply any antiseptic cream or lotion. Be watchful for possible signs of infection. Increased swelling, pain, redness, and even fever can be experienced.

At this stage, it would be best to go to any San Joaquin community hospital nearest you. Let the physician examine the wound and assess the possibility of developing the rabies virus inside your body. As each person may feel different symptoms for rabies, stage one of this virus can give individuals symptoms such as headache, fever, decreased appetite, malaise, and vomiting.

Individuals that are infected with the rabies virus may also feel itching, pain, or numbness at the site of the wound. At stage two, individuals may develop swallowing difficulties, which can cause foaming at the mouth. They can also feel disoriented and agitated, while some even get paralyzed. Death may also be a result of the virus, so it is important to go to any San Joaquin community hospital Bakersfield has as soon as the bite is cleaned up.

As homeowners with pets, it is your duty to protect your family from the rabies virus. Be sure to have your pets treated appropriately, to ensure the safety and health of your family. Get to know more about rabies, including treatment and prevention, by calling any hospital San Joaquin provides.