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Many years ago, Derf, one of our neighbor’s Jack Russell dogs was affected with rabies. Upon knowing the news, my mom never failed to remind us not to go out or go somewhere near the dog. She said that death is at hand once a person is affected with the virus causing disease.

Rabies, associated with hydrophobia, is a disease caused by virus. This viral disease usually affects warm blooded animals, affecting the nervous system causing encephalitis or inflammation of the brain. The virus that causes rabies is spread through the saliva from the bite of an infected animal. Rabies when transmitted to humans can be very fatal.

The disease affects not just dogs but other animals such as bats, monkeys, raccoons, foxes, skunks, cattle and wolves. Other means in which this disease can be transmitted is through aerosol, transplant surgery and in rare cases, through kisses.

When an infected animal bites a human, the virus enters then peripheral nervous system. It will then travel along the nerves in the direction of the central nervous system. When the virus reaches the brain, it will immediately lead into encephalitis. Infected person is also at high risk of myelitis or inflammation of the spinal cord.

Everybody should be careful because this disease is incurable and will eventually lead to death. Well, my mother was right!

Preventive measures must be taken since this disease is impossible to treat. Dog owners should always make sure that their Jack Russell dogs have complete shots of vaccine. Consult your veterinarian for advice on anti-rabies vaccination. People should as much as possible prevent contact with animals especially those affected with rabies to minimize the risk.

Success in rabies treatment is rare so we should always keep in mind the word ‘prevention’.

Tags: Dogs

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