RABIES
Rabies is a viral disease contracted through direct contact with an infected mammal, typically via a bite, scratch, or saliva entering an open wound. It is primarily found in wild animals like bats, raccoons, skunks, and foxes, though dogs remain a source in many other countries. The Rabies lyssavirus attacks the central nervous system and brain, and is almost always fatal without immediate medical care following exposure.
If you suspect you have been exposed, you can use the online Rabies Exposure Assessment Tool to evaluate your risk level, learn if you need emergency medical treatment, and receive specific instructions on who to contact next.
RABIES OVERVIEW
Select a topic below to learn more about rabies, including prevention, symptoms, post-exposure treatment, and guidance for healthcare providers.
PREVENTION
To protect pets:
- Keep rabies vaccinations up to date.
- Supervise pets outdoors to avoid contact with wild animals.
- Report stray animals to local animal control.
To prevent rabies in people:
- Avoid contact with wild or unfamiliar animals.
- Get vaccinated before traveling to high-risk areas or working with wildlife.
- Wash bites or scratches immediately with soap and water, then seek medical care.
Rabies in people is nearly 100% preventable through prompt medical care.
SYMPTOMS
First symptoms of rabies are similar to the flu and may last for days:
- General weakness or discomfort
- Fever and headache
- Itching, tingling, or burning sensation at the exposure site
As the disease progresses, individuals may experience:
- Anxiety, confusion, and agitation
- Fear of water (hydrophobia) or drafts of air (aerophobia)
- Hallucinations and insomnia
- Difficulty swallowing and partial paralysis
Symptoms in animals are often similar to those in humans.
TESTING AND DIAGNOSIS
To diagnose someone, a physician will:
- Collect necessary samples, including saliva, blood, spinal fluid, and skin biopsies.
- Coordinate with public health departments for specialized laboratory testing.
To diagnose animals, a veterinarian or animal control will:
- Humanely euthanize the animal, as testing requires examining brain tissue.
- Submit samples to a state laboratory to safely confirm the virus.
Rapid and accurate laboratory diagnosis is essential for proper care.
TREATMENT
Rabies Treatment and Care
Post-Exposure Prophylaxis (PEP) is highly effective when started immediately, varying by vaccination history.
For Unvaccinated Individuals
- One dose of Human Rabies Immune Globulin (HRIG) at the exposure site for immediate passive immunity.
- Four-dose rabies vaccine series administered on days 0, 3, 7, and 14.
For Previously Vaccinated Individuals
- HRIG is omitted due to existing baseline defense.
- Two-dose booster vaccine series administered on days 0 and 3.
Go to an emergency department or urgent care immediately.
PROVIDER RESOURCES
Guidance for Healthcare Providers
Providers play an important role in evaluating rabies exposures and managing post-exposure prophylaxis (PEP). Clinical responsibilities include:
- Conducting thorough wound care and cleaning at the exposure site
- Performing risk assessments to determine the necessity of PEP
- Referring patients with potential exposures to the emergency department for immediate treatment
For provider questions about treatment guidance, risk assessment, or clinical support, contact the Southwest Utah Public Health Department’s disease investigation staff.