The Vital Importance of Early Intervention in Rabies

Prof. Dr. Tuğba Sarı, a faculty member at the Department of Infectious Diseases at PAU Hospitals, drew attention to rabies, stating that the disease is fatal once symptoms begin and therefore early intervention is of vital importance.

General Overview of Rabies

It is known that thousands of people apply to hospitals in our country every year due to rabies-risk exposure. Rabies, an acute viral zoonotic disease that can result in death within an average of 18 days after the onset of symptoms, causes the loss of 40,000 to 100,000 lives worldwide every year.

Situation and Risk Factors in Turkey

Turkey is among the rare countries in the European continent where dog-mediated rabies is observed. In our country, more than 200,000 citizens are vaccinated every year due to rabies-risk exposure.

The vast majority of cases originate from stray cats and dogs and pets that are not adequately protected from wildlife. Death occurs within 10 days in cats and dogs carrying the virus.

Incubation Period and Symptoms

Following a bite by a rabid animal, the incubation period generally ranges from 14 to 90 days, but this period can be much longer. After clinical findings appear, there is no specific treatment for the disease, and vaccines administered after symptoms begin are not beneficial.

First Steps to Take After a Bite

In the event of a bite or scratch by a rabies-suspected animal, the first action to take is to wash the contact area thoroughly with soap and water for at least 15 minutes.

Following the cleaning process, it is necessary to apply to a health institution without wasting time. Modern rabies vaccines and rabies immunoglobulin administered free of charge in health institutions achieve high success when applied in the correct dose and on time.