Rabies: Transmission, History, and Speed of Spread - AMM

According to the Association of Medical Microbiologists (AMM), "rabies is a viral infection to which all mammals, including man, are susceptible." The disease is quickly transmitted by direct contact with infectious saliva through bites or scratches.

History

• The first known description of rabies dates back to the ancient city of Babylon, in the 23rd century B.C. In 1885, microbiologist Louis Pasteur administered a new treatment to an infected boy, and the child lived.

Methods of Transmission

• While a bite from any infected animal can spread the disease, transmission to humans takes place primarily through rabid dogs. Inhalation of infected bat secretions is also a potential factor.

Time Frame

• According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), rabies brings on acute encephalitis, which almost always leads to death. Once inside a host, the virus' incubation period generally lasts for one to three months.

Effects

• Rabies attacks the central-nervous system and, ultimately, the brain. Symptoms begin with headache and fever but soon progress to agitation, hallucination and delirium. Death generally occurs within 10 days after symptom onset.

Considerations

• The actual speed with which the rabies virus spreads depends upon how many physical contacts an infected animal makes. Fortunately, there are now preventive vaccinations and effective post-bite treatments available.