Rabies

BRIDGEPORT, W.Va. (WDTV) - Every 10 minutes, someone in the United States is treated for possible exposure to rabies. Joining us tonight on House Call is Dr. Nate Russell, Family Medicine resident at UHC Family Medicine.

1). Doctor can you describe for us what rabies is?

Absolutely, rabies is a virus that infects wildlife, especially bats, raccoons, skunks and foxes in the United States, but it can also spread to people if they are bitten or scratched. Symptoms include fever, agitation, and even death.

Most importantly, rabies is 100% preventable if treated before symptoms start! People can now be given post-exposure prophylaxis or (PEP), which includes the rabies vaccine and medications to fight the infection, which are very effective is given symptoms start. Understanding the risk of rabies and knowing what to do after contact with wildlife can save lives.

2). So in our region what animals should we pay particularly attention to with regard to rabies?

Bats span the entire country with the exception of Hawaii. In fact 7 out of 10 Americans who die from rabies in the US were infected by a bat.

Now along the eastern board from New England to Florida, including our region locally, we are also more vulnerable to rabies through contact with raccoons. Altogether, about 5,000 animals—mostly wildlife—test positive for rabies each year in the United States.

3). What do you recommend, as many viewers watching this interview tonight may not know what they should do if they suspect rabies?

First, the best way to avoid rabies is to avoid physical contact with wildlife. Definitely get out and admire wildlife, but do it from a distance.

It is important to remember that contact with infected bats is the leading cause of rabies deaths in people in the US. Be careful if you see a bat and especially when exploring caves.

Be cautious when traveling abroad. It may be surprising to hear that the second leading cause of death from rabies in Americans is due to exposure to rabid dogs while traveling internationally.

So what should you do if you are bitten or scratched? First wash all animal bites or scratches immediately with soap and water to help prevent other types of infections.

If you are bitten, scratched or even unsure, talk to a healthcare provider about whether you need PEP.

It may seem simple, but vaccinating your pets will help protect not only them, but also you and your family.

If you find injured wildlife, don’t touch it; contact local authorities for assistance.

Remember death from rabies is completely preventable if treated before symptoms start. So whether in the US or abroad, seeing a healthcare provider quickly after an animal bite or scratch can ensure people get PEP if needed.

This content was originally posted on the WDTV News website here.

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