RABIES: CAUSES, PREVENTIVE MEASURES, AND TIMELY TREATMENT

 Recently, a rabies-related death in Điện Bàn town, Quảng Nam, has shocked the community. The main cause was a lack of awareness and a negligent attitude toward preventing this dangerous disease. Dr. Nguyễn Xuân Hương, Head of the Department of Public Health and Director of the Center for Scientific Research and International Cooperation (CRIC) at Phan Chau Trinh University, has shared essential information on preventing and addressing rabies in a timely manner.

 Rabies is an extremely dangerous disease caused by the rabies virus (scientifically known as Rabies lyssavirus), which can lead to death if vaccination is not promptly administered. It is transmitted through bites or licks from infected animals such as dogs, cats, bats, foxes, ferrets, and other wild animals. This virus enters through wounds, attacks the nervous system, and causes brain inflammation. Once rabies symptoms appear, the disease progresses rapidly and is nearly always fatal, with a death rate close to 100% and no treatment. Therefore, getting vaccinated immediately after being bitten by an animal suspected of carrying rabies is crucial to prevent death.

Rabies Prevention Measures for the Community:

1. Rabies vaccination for all pets: Ensure that dogs, cats, and other pets are fully vaccinated on schedule and revaccinated when necessary, according to your veterinarian’s advice. Do not let dogs or cats roam freely.
2. Avoid contact with strange or abnormal animals showing signs of illness (such as unusual behavior, attacking people, or loss of control). Avoid contact with wild animals.
3. Get vaccinated after a bite: If bitten by an animal suspected of rabies, immediately perform first aid, then go to a medical facility for consultation and vaccination. Early vaccination is the only way to prevent rabies.

First Aid for Animal Bites Suspected of Rabies:/-strong/-heart:>:o:-((:-h 1. Immediately wash the wound: Use soap and clean water to rinse the wound under running water for at least 15 minutes. If soap is unavailable, use clean water. This is the most crucial step to reduce the risk of rabies infection.
2. Treat the wound: If possible, wash the wound with 70% alcohol or povidone-iodine to kill bacteria. Avoid crushing the wound, and do not cover it tightly.
3. See a doctor immediately: Go to the nearest medical facility for timely rabies vaccination. Rabies vaccination is the only way to prevent the disease.
4. Do not self-medicate: Avoid self-treatment or consulting unqualified healers, as this could worsen the situation.

Be proactive in preventing rabies today to protect your health and that of the community. Don’t let negligence or lack of knowledge put you or your loved ones at risk!