Rabies in bats have not been a cause of concern in the U.S. but the Illinois man’s death due to a rabid bat bite has spiked fear. Is this the beginning of another infectious spread? Find out ways to safeguard your community now.
Rabies is a type of virus that infects the nervous system of the host. It originated during the 18th Century B.C. in wild animals like raccoons, bats, wolves, foxes, etc. Rabies can be transmitted only by coming into contact with an infected animal’s saliva directly or through open wounds.
Unfortunately, once the symptoms begin to exhibit, a rabid animal will die within five days. On the other hand, a rabid human can survive if post-exposure treatments are taken during the incubation period. If not he/she will die within seven days.
The last death caused by bats and rabies occurred around 2018 in the U.S. after a man was extensively exposed to them during work. The first incident after 2 years happened a few weeks ago in Illinois.
An 80-year-old man woke up to a bat biting his neck and denied post-exposure treatment. He later died after his nervous system shut down due to the infection. Authorities disposed of a bat nest full of rabid bats to prevent dying from rabies.
Rabies in dogs and cats is common in Asia and Africa. While raccoons, skunks, and bats transmit it to humans in the U.S. It is necessary to get immediate care if you believe you have come in contact with bat saliva. Biting and scratching are common ways of transmission.
Unlike what they show on screen, rabid animals will never froth. A rabid animal may be hostile and aggressive. Here are the rabies symptoms in humans:
Human rabies is fatal 99% once clinical symptoms begin to exhibit themselves.
Health care workers suggest it is necessary to get hospitalized if you suspect being bitten by a rabid animal. The primary treatment involves cleaning the wound and administering several doses of fast-acting vaccines to fight against rabies. They also suggest you make note of the animal if possible to help in finalizing the appropriate dosage.
How to prevent your pets from rabies?
How to prevent yourself from rabies?
Rabies in bats and human rabies can become endemic in the U.S. if they are left unattended.
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