Warning!! Rabies: A Deadly and Dangerous Infectious Disease

"Rabies," also known as "Hydrophobia" (fear of water) or "Ma Wor" (in Isan dialect), is an infectious disease caused by the Rabies virus. It affects all warm-blooded mammals, including dogs, cats, cows, buffaloes, monkeys, squirrels, tigers, bears, rats, bats, and humans. In Thailand, over 95% of cases are found in dogs, followed by cats and cattle.

Humans can contract rabies if they are bitten, scratched, or licked on a wound or abrasion by an infected animal. This disease can spread year-round.

Symptoms of Rabies

1. Initial Phase: Inflammation of the brain and meninges occurs within the first 2-3 days. Patients may experience body aches, low-grade fever, loss of appetite, fatigue, and itching or burning sensations at the bite site.
2. Neurological Phase: Irritability, restlessness, and agitation begin to manifest for about 2-3 days. This is followed by depression and phobias, including sensitivity to light (photophobia), wind, loud noises, and a fear of water (hydrophobia).
3. Final Phase: Increased agitation, alternating between periods of calm and seizures. Some patients may experience paralysis, loss of consciousness, and eventually death.

First Aid: What to do if bitten or scratched

• Immediately wash the wound several times with saline or clean water and soap.
• Clean the wound with 70% alcohol or povidone-iodine.
• Confine the animal to observe its symptoms (if possible).
• Consult a doctor and receive treatment at the hospital immediately.

Khonkaen Ram Hospital provides standardized rabies vaccination and medical care services.

Prevention of Rabies

• Avoid being bitten or scratched by dogs or cats. Do not allow animals to lick your hands, feet, or open wounds, as infection is primarily transmitted through the saliva of infected animals.
• Ensure all pets are vaccinated against rabies annually.
• Control the stray animal population through spaying and neutering.