Rabies

Rabies is an NTD caused by viruses from the rabies lyssavirus family, a group of viruses that can be found in all continents of the world except Antarctica. The disease is acquired when a person gets scratched or bitten by a rabies infected animal. Wild animals such as skunks, raccoons, bats and foxes, are the main reservoirs of rabies. However, 99% of rabies related deaths in humans worldwide are caused by the bite of rabies infected dogs, and 40% of individuals being bitten are children under 15 years of age. Rabies is a serious disease that affects the central nervous system and may cause hallucinations, paralysis, and comas. Once symptoms show, it is deemed too late for the patient to survive, leading to his or her eventual death. This is why preventive methods as well as immediate treatment after rabies exposure is crucial to reduce disease transmission and fatalities. Rabies vaccines are available for animals, so it is recommended to routinely vaccinate household pets and is one of the most effective means of prevention.