Rabies Awareness: Protecting Both Animals and Humans

Indonesia in one of the countries with high death rate due to rabies. Rabies is a viral disease that can be fatal once symptoms appear. Since the beginning of 2024, 71 people in Indonesia have died from rabies, with East Nusa Tenggara (NTT) being the most effected region. In 2023, there were 19,320 cases of animal bites that could potentially spread rabies, and 16,180 cases in the first half of 2024. To address this issue, it is important for the public to take personal safety measures and improve coorperation between the health and agriculture sectors. This includes mass dog vaccination and getting proper treatment after a bite. Authorities also need to run campaigns about rabies to help the public be more cautions and aware of disease, which can lead to death once symptoms show.

The dogs queue at the clinic shows pets waiting vaccines. Prepared by Syarifah Alia binti Mohammad Azhar

Rabies is a viral disease that affects the central nervous system and almost always leads to death once clinical symptoms appear.It is usually transmitted through bites from infected animals, especially dogs. The rabies virus, part of the Lyssavirus family, is found in the saliva of infected animals such as dogs, cats, and wild animals. When an infected animal bites another animal or a human, the virus can enter the body through an opened wound, causing an infection that attacks the nervous system.

Symptoms of Rabies in Dogs:

1. Early Stage: Dogs may become more aggressive or conversely, more shy and tend to isolate themselves.

2. Mid Stage: Dogs may experience coordination problems and unsteady walking. They appear weak and less active.

3. Late Stage: Paralysis signs appear, including difficulty swallowing, jaw stiffness, and movement issues. Dogs may drool excessively and have trouble swallowing. In some cases, dogs may experience seizures.

Symptoms of Rabies in Human:

1. Early Stage: Symptoms may include fever, headache, and discomfort at the bite area. At this stage, symptoms may be mistaken for a common illness.

2. Developing Illness: The patient may experience confusion and disorientation, leading to significant behavioral changes. Other neurological symptoms like muscle spasms and difficulty moving may also appear.

3. Late Stage: In the final stage, rabies can cause seizures and paralysis, making it difficult for the patient to move.

Rabies is a preventable disease through vaccination. The rabies vaccine is highly effective in preventing the disease if given immediately after a bite. It helps the body produce antibodies to fight the rabies virus. It is essential to get the vaccine within 24 hours after a bite for the best results.

Moreover, children, people working with animals, and those frequently interacting with wild animals or unvaccinated dogs are at higher risk of contracting rabies. The lack of dog vaccinations also increases the risk of rabies spreading in the community. Once symptoms appear, rabies almost always ends in death. Therefore, preventing infection through vaccination and getting immediate treatment after a bite is crucial. Without treatment before symptoms show, survival chances are very slow.

The cute dog is hospitalized to recieve further treatment. Prepared by Syarifah Alia binti Mohammad Azhar.

Step to Take if Bitten by an Animal that May Have Rabies:

1. Immediately wash the wound with soap and water. If soap and water are unavailable, use alcohol.

2. After a few minutes, apply iodine or antiviral medicine if available.

3. Seek medical care as soon as possible and make sure to complete all rabies vaccination doses.

Preventive Measures:

• Ensure that your dogs or cats are vaccinated against rabies. This vaccine is highly effective in preventing the disease.

• Do not approach or touch wild animals, especially if they show unusual or aggresive behavior.

• Avoid approaching unknown dogs or cats. Sick or unkempt animals may carry the rabies virus.

• Teach children about the dangers of approaching unfamiliar animals and the importance of reporting bites or injuries.

• Keep your pets under control when walking in public areas to reduce the risk of encounters with wild animals.

• If you work in agriculture or animal husbandry, make sure your animals are vaccinated and monitored for signs of illness.

• Raise public awareness about rabies, its signs, and the importance of immediate care after a bite.

By following these steps, you can reduce the risk of rabies, also protect yourself and others.

Rabies is a dangerous disease that can be prevented through vaccination and immediate medical treatment after a bite. Raising awareness about the importance of vaccination and preventive measures is crucial to reducing the spread of this disease, protecting public health, and preventing rabies-related deaths.