Introduction: Hydrophobia, commonly known as rabies, is a deadly disease that has been a serious threat to mankind for centuries. It is a viral infection that is mainly spread by bites or scratches of infected animals. The most frightening truth is that once the symptoms start appearing, there is no sure cure, and it is 100% fatal. This is why it is called “a silent killer” It attacks silently and by the time it is detected, it is too late.
Rabies is a fatal disease: the reason for its lack of a sure cure Rabies virus directly affects the nervous system. This virus is transmitted through a bite after entering the body through a cut or scratch, it slowly reaches the brain through the peripheral nerves. Once it reaches the brain, it replicates rapidly and causes severe neurological damage.
Main reasons:
- Late appearance of symptoms: The incubation period of rabies may range from a few days to several months or sometimes years. During this long period, the symptoms of rabies infection are very rare. During this time, a person may not experience any symptoms. By the time symptoms such as fever, headache, muscle cramps, paralysis, confusion, aggressive behavior, and fear of water or air (hydrophobia/aerophobia) appear, the virus is irreversibly embedded in the brain. The damage has already been done.
- Entry of the virus into the brain: Once the virus reaches the central nervous system, it becomes extremely difficult to stop it at that stage. The blood-brain barrier of the brain The blood-brain barrier prevents drugs from reaching the brain, making it difficult for antiviral drugs to be effective.
- Vaccination is the only solution: The only effective treatment for rabies is effective post-exposure vaccination Prophylaxis (PEP), in which several doses of vaccines are given immediately after infection. This vaccine neutralizes the virus before it reaches the nervous system. But if the vaccine is not successful in time. Why do people often become victims of rabies even after injection?
It is a common misconception that people become victims of rabies even after injection (vaccine). The reality is that if correct and timely vaccination is done, rabies can be prevented. However, there are a few reasons why it may seem like the infection occurred even after the injection:
- Starting treatment late: As mentioned earlier, rabies has a long incubation period If a person does not get immediate medical help after being bitten and vaccination is delayed, the virus may have time to reach the brain. Once symptoms start appearing, the vaccine becomes ineffective.
- Skipping vaccination: Rabies vaccine has a prescribed course that includes multiple doses. If the victim does not take all the doses or skips the course, the body may not develop enough antibodies, leaving the protection incomplete.
- Wound not treated properly: After an animal bite, it is very important to wash the wound thoroughly with soap and water immediately after the bite. This helps in removing the virus. If the wound is not cleaned properly, the virus infection can spread further. The risk of infection increases.
- Weak immune system despite vaccination: In many cases, a person’s immune system may be weak, which prevents the vaccine from being fully effective. But, this is very rare.
- Wrong vaccine or storage: In very rare cases, the quality, storage conditions or method of administration of the vaccine may be incorrect, which may reduce its effectiveness But, this is very rare.
- Wrong vaccine or storage: In very rare cases, the quality, storage conditions or method of administration of the vaccine may be incorrect, which may reduce its effectiveness. A worldwide movement is needed to stop deaths from rabies because this is not just a country’s problem, but a global health challenge.
A worldwide movement?
- Awareness: Awareness about rabies is severely lacking around the world, especially in rural and underdeveloped areas. It is important to educate people about its symptoms, prevention methods, and what to do after a bite.
- Vaccination of dogs: Most cases of rabies are caused by dog bites. Mass dog vaccination is the most effective and cost-efficient method of rabies control. If more than 70% of dogs are vaccinated,
The incidence of rabies in humans can be significantly reduced.
- Strengthening the public health system: Surveillance of rabies cases, ensuring availability of vaccines, and availability of trained medical staff are important
- International collaboration and research: Rabies is a cross-border problem. Collaboration between countries, sharing of information, and research on new vaccines and treatments are needed.
- Empowering communities: Involve local communities in rabies control programs and provide them with tools and knowledge to prevent the spread of rabies in their area
- “Zero by 30” target: World Health Organization (WHO), World Organization for Animal Health (OIE), Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO), and Global Alliance for Rabies The Global Rabies Control (GARC) has together set a “Zero by 30” goal, which means eliminating human deaths from dog-borne rabies by 2030. A strong and coordinated global effort is necessary to achieve this goal.
Conclusion
Rabies is a dreadful disease, but it is completely preventable. Awareness, timely vaccination, and mass vaccination of dogs can help eradicate this silent killer forever. Only a coordinated worldwide movement will help us achieve this goal, freeing future generations from the fear of rabies.
