UNDERSTANDING RABIES: HOW A BITE LEADS TO BRAIN INFECTION

Objective: To describe the main aspects of rabies virus infection, including its spread, effects on the body, methods of diagnosis, and prevention strategies. Study Design: This paper is a review of existing scientific reports and global health guidelines on rabies. Results: The rabies virus enters humans most often through the bite of an infected dog [1]. Dogs are responsible for over 99% of human rabies cases worldwide [2]. After the bite, the virus grows in nearby muscle tissue and then moves along nerve pathways to the brain and spinal cord [3]. Once inside the brain, it triggers severe swelling, which eventually leads to death due to breathing failure [4]. Early warning signs include fever and headache, followed by confusion, terror of water, excess saliva, fits, and loss of muscle control [5]. No effective treatment exists once these signs appear [6]. However, thorough wound cleaning with soap and water for 15 minutes, followed by rabies vaccine and immunoglobulin, can stop the disease nearly 100% of the time if given before symptoms start [7]. Conclusion: Rabies is almost always deadly after symptoms show up, but it is entirely avoidable. Widespread dog vaccination, public awareness, and rapid post-bite care are the cornerstones of rabies elimination [1].