Rabies is a fatal neurologic disease caused by infection with Rabies Lyssavirus. In the U.S., people can be exposed to rabies by coming into contact with wild animals carrying the virus or through their pets, if the pet has encountered a rabid animal. All warm-blooded animals and humans of all ages are susceptible to rabies. Rabies infection is transmitted by the saliva from a bite of an infected animal, by aerosol (inhaled) in caves populated by bats, and rarely from the scratch of an infected animal. People who are exposed to rabies should seek medical care immediately.
In the United States, cats are the domestic species most frequently reported to be rabid, with 200 to 300 cases per year. Worldwide, dogs are the predominant domestic animal to be infected by rabies. Wildlife is the main source of human infection in developed countries. Common carriers in the U.S. include raccoons, skunks, bats, and foxes. The best way to avoid rabies in the U.S. is to keep your distance from wildlife. Never approach injured animals; instead, contact animal control for assistance.
Pet owners can lower their risk by keeping pets up to date on rabies vaccines. For cats and dogs, the first rabies vaccine is given at 16 weeks of age. The rabies vaccine is then repeated one year later. After these first two rabies vaccines, dogs and cats are usually vaccinated for rabies every two to three years. Large animals can also be vaccinated for rabies. To reduce risk of rabies exposure, keep your pets away from wild animals and unfamiliar pets as much as possible. Pets that are exposed are quarantined for ten days to six months or euthanized and sent for testing. Testing to detect rabies infection is always done post-mortem. If you have questions regarding rabies exposure and your pet, call your veterinarian.
If you suspect you have been exposed to rabies or if you have been bitten or scratched by an animal, wash the wound immediately with soap and water, then call your health care provider. You must wash and seek medical help right away. Mammals infected with rabies typically die with 10 days of onset of clinical signs.
Your healthcare provider will be able to guide you on whether you need treatment. The treatment after rabies exposure is called post-exposure prophylaxis (PEP). This treatment is highly effective if it's given as soon as possible after exposure. Delaying PEP can lead to an untreatable rabies infection and death.
