FAQ

Rabies is most commonly transmitted through the saliva of an infected animal, typically via bites. It can also be transmitted when infected saliva comes into contact with open cuts or mucous membranes (eyes, nose, mouth). Wild animals like bats, raccoons, skunks, and foxes are common carriers.

Initial symptoms may include fever, chewing at the bite site, and behavioral changes. As the disease progresses, pets may show signs of aggression, excessive drooling, difficulty swallowing, seizures, paralysis, and eventually death. Any sudden behavior change in your pet should prompt an immediate visit to the vet.

Rabies vaccination is crucial because:

• It's the only way to prevent rabies, a fatal disease once symptoms develop.
• It's required by law in many places due to the public health risk posed by rabies.
• Vaccinating pets protects them, their owners, and the community by preventing the spread of the disease.

Puppies and kittens should receive their first rabies vaccination at around 3-4 months of age, with a booster shot a year later. After this, pets should be vaccinated every 1-3 years, depending on the type of vaccine used and local laws. Consult with your veterinarian for the recommended vaccination schedule for your pet.

The rabies vaccine is safe for most animals. Some pets may experience mild side effects, such as soreness at the injection site, fever, or lethargy, which typically resolve within a few days. Severe reactions are rare. Discuss any concerns with your veterinarian, especially if your pet has had reactions to vaccines in the past.

If you suspect your pet has been bitten by a rabid animal or exposed to rabies, contact your veterinarian immediately, even if your pet is vaccinated. Prompt medical assessment and possible booster vaccinations may be necessary. In areas with high rabies risk, it's crucial to report the incident to local animal control or public health departments as well.

If you are bitten by an animal, it's crucial to take the following steps to reduce your risk of rabies and other infections:

1. Clean the Wound: Immediately wash the wound thoroughly with soap and water for at least 15 minutes to help remove the rabies virus if present.

2. Seek Medical Attention: Visit a healthcare provider or an emergency room promptly. Medical assessment is essential to evaluate the need for rabies post-exposure prophylaxis (PEP), which includes a series of rabies vaccinations.

3. Initiate Post-Exposure Prophylaxis (PEP): If the risk of rabies is determined to be significant, PEP should be started as soon as possible. PEP is nearly 100% effective in preventing rabies when administered correctly and promptly. It typically involves one dose of rabies immunoglobulin and four doses of rabies vaccine over a two-week period for an unvaccinated person.

4. Report the Bite: Inform local health authorities or animal control about the bite. They can help in monitoring or testing the animal for rabies, which is crucial for determining the need for continued PEP.

5. Follow Up: Adhere to any medical advice and complete the full course of treatment. Keep the wound clean and monitor for signs of infection or illness.

By taking these steps immediately after an animal bite, you significantly reduce the risk of developing rabies and ensure proper management of potential health complications. In case of the bite contact the local Vaccination center at Pasteur Institute Cambodia