Despite being entirely preventable, Rabies continues to be one of the most feared and fatal viral disease worldwide. Recently, the tragic episode of a 22-year-old state-level Kabaddi player gripped the nation. After being bitten by a dog, he tragically lost his life to Rabies nearly three months later, sparking nationwide concern.
According to a 2024 report by a leading media outlet, India records an alarming average of more than four Rabies-related deaths each month. This data highlights the urgent need for increased public awareness, timely medical intervention and proactive approach to combat this life-threatening yet preventable disease.
What Is Rabies?
Rabies is a viral disease that affects the central nervous system, leading to brain inflammation and, eventually, death if not treated on time. It is most commonly transmitted to humans through the bite or scratch of an infected animal, particularly stray dogs that have not been vaccinated.
Despite being 100% preventable, rabies remains a serious public health concern in India due to lack of awareness and delayed treatment.
How Does Rabies Spread?
The transmission of rabies usually occurs through:
- Bites from infected or unvaccinated animals (specially dogs)
- Scratches or contact of infected saliva with broken skin or mucous membranes
- Licking on open wounds or cuts by a rabid animal
In India, stray and unvaccinated domestic dogs are the most common carriers of the virus. Once the virus enters the body, it may lie dormant for a few weeks to several months. It travels through the peripheral nerves to the brain, where it causes swelling, neurological damage and ultimately, death if untreated.
Symptoms of Rabies
Rabies symptoms typically appear in three stages:
- Initial (Onset) Symptoms:
- Fever
- Headache
- Tingling or pain over the affected area
- Progressive Symptoms:
- Muscle spasms
- Difficulty swallowing
- Anxiety, agitation and confusion
- Excessive salivation (often called “foaming at the mouth”)
- Severe Stage:
- Hallucinations
- Paralysis
- Coma
- Death
Unfortunately, once symptoms began to flare, the disease is almost fatal. That’s why immediate action post-bite is crucial.
What To Do After a Suspected Rabies Exposure?
If you or someone around you is bitten, scratched, or licked on an open wound by an animal, follow these life-saving steps immediately:
Wash the Wound
- Clean the wound thoroughly under running water for 15 minutes
- Use soap or antiseptic if available to kill the virus at the entry site
Seek Medical Help
- Visit a healthcare facility or doctor immediately
- You may require a Tetanus shot if your last vaccination was not recent
Start the Rabies Vaccine Course
- The Rabies post-exposure prophylaxis (PEP) is your only protection if given on time.
Wound Care
- It is important to care for the wound as it helps in reducing the risk of infection.
Rabies Vaccine Schedule (Post-Exposure Prophylaxis)
A total of five doses are administered:
- Day 0 – The day of the bite
- Day 3
- Day 7
- Day 14
- Day 28
Some individuals may also require Rabies Immunoglobulin (RIG) if the exposure is severe or the bite is on a high-risk area like the face, neck, or hands.
How Can Rabies Be Prevented?
The best and only way to prevent rabies is through:
- Timely vaccination after exposure
- Vaccinating your pets, especially dogs and cats
- Avoiding contact with stray animals
- Educating children about not provoking unknown animals
- Conducting vaccination drives in your vicinity
There is no cure once rabies symptoms begin. That makes prevention through awareness and vaccination the only effective strategy against this deadly virus.
Why Awareness Is Key?
Many tragic rabies deaths, including that of Kabaddi player, are the result of delayed or ignored symptoms. Early vaccination saves lives and raising public awareness can make a significant difference in preventing avoidable deaths.
Healing Pharma’s Commitment to Spreading Awareness
At Healing Pharma, we are concerned by the growing number of preventable rabies cases in India. Our mission goes beyond offering high-quality, affordable medicines. We are committed to spreading awareness and ensuring that people get timely access to high-quality medicines at affordable price. Because at Healing Pharma, we strongly believe that health is not just about treating illnesses, but also about preventing them in the first place.
