Friday, 7 September 2012

rabies treatment for humans

rabies treatment for humans,Rabies is a serious viral disease that is carried in animals such as bats, wolves and even pet dogs. While it is not as common for humans to contract rabies as it is for other animals, it is still possible. Immediate proper treatment is vital to keep the disease from becoming life-threatening.What Is Rabies?

Rabies is a viral disease that attacks the central nervous system. It is transmitted through saliva from an infected animal, and can be transferred through a bite or even through extended contact of any kind with the saliva. Rabies can take anywhere from a few days to a few years to incubate in humans.

Signs and Symptoms
Most people with rabies first experience flu-like symptoms such as headaches, fever and discomfort. As the disease progresses, symptoms change to include anxiety, confusion, agitation and abnormal behavior, such as seeing hallucinations and becoming delirious.

Diagnosis
Lab tests on saliva, skin and brain tissue can determine the presence of rabies, but usually only after it has progressed into untreatable territory. The easiest way to determine if someone has rabies is to test the animal that bit them. If that is not possible, a doctor evaluates all of the information about the contact with the infected animal and decides if infection is likely and needs to be treated.

Treatment
A person undergoing rabies treatment is first injected with one dose of Human Rabies immunoglobulin with antibodies to the virus. The patient then receive a series of three to five rabies vaccinations. Depending how far the disease has progressed, the patient may also need respiratory or cardiac support, anti-anxiety medication and even intensive care.

Warning
Rabies can be fatal. Once the disease progresses to the point where more serious symptoms (such as hallucinations and delirium) present, it is usually too late for treatment.

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