Rabies is a fatal but preventable viral disease.

It can spread to people and pets if they are bitten or

scratched by a rabid animal. In the United States, rabies is mostly found in wild animals like bats,
raccoons, skunks, and foxes. However, in many other countries dogs still carry rabies, and most rabies
deaths in people around the world are caused by dog bites.

The rabies virus infects the central nervous system. If a person does not receive the appropriate medical
care after a potential rabies exposure, the virus can cause disease in the brain, ultimately resulting in
death. Rabies can be prevented by vaccinating pets, staying away from wildlife, and seeking medical
care after potential exposures before symptoms start.

What happens if a person gets rabies?

Following a bite, the rabies virus spreads by way of the nerve cells to the brain. Once in
the brain, the virus multiplies rapidly. This activity causes severe inflammation of the
brain and spinal cord after which the person deteriorates rapidly and dies.

How do u know if u have rabies?

The first symptoms of rabies can appear from a few days to more than a year after the
bite happens. At first, there's a tingling, prickling, or itching feeling around the bite area.
A person also might have flu-like symptoms such as a fever, headache, muscle aches,
loss of appetite, nausea, and tiredness.