Rabies is a viral infection that affects the central nervous system and is almost always fatal once symptoms appear. However, the key to survival lies in receiving timely and appropriate medical treatment before symptoms develop. This involves post-exposure prophylaxis (PEP), which is a series of vaccines and, in some cases, rabies immune globulin (RIG).
The PEP treatment is highly effective in preventing the development of rabies in a person who has been exposed to the virus (e.g., through an animal bite). When administered promptly after the exposure, PEP can prevent the virus from spreading to the central nervous system and becoming fatal.
If a person receives the full course of PEP before symptoms appear, the chances of survival are very high. In most cases, PEP is successful in preventing the onset of rabies. However, once clinical symptoms of rabies have begun to manifest, the disease is almost always fatal.
It is crucial to seek immediate medical attention if you have been bitten or scratched by an animal or have had any other potential exposure to rabies. The healthcare provider will assess the risk and recommend the appropriate PEP treatment.
Remember, prevention is always better than treatment when it comes to rabies. Avoiding contact with wild or stray animals, vaccinating pets, and seeking medical attention after an animal bite can help reduce the risk of rabies infection.