Once clinical symptoms of rabies appear, it is virtually 100% fatal.
Rabies is a deadly viral disease that affects the central nervous system. While theoretically treatable before symptoms manifest, successful treatment hinges on immediate post-exposure prophylaxis (PEP) involving thorough wound washing and administration of rabies immunoglobulin and a rabies vaccine. However, once the virus reaches the brain and causes clinical rabies, survival is exceptionally rare.
Here's a breakdown:
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Before Symptoms Appear (Incubation Period): Rabies is preventable with PEP. The incubation period, the time between exposure and symptom onset, can range from weeks to months, depending on factors like the location of the bite and the amount of virus introduced.
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After Symptoms Appear (Clinical Rabies): Once neurological symptoms develop, the prognosis is grim. These symptoms can include:
- Fever
- Headache
- General weakness or discomfort
- Anxiety
- Confusion
- Agitation
- Insomnia
- Hydrophobia (fear of water)
- Paralysis
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Exceptions are Extremely Rare: There have been a few documented cases of survival after the onset of clinical rabies, often involving induced comas and aggressive supportive care (the "Milwaukee Protocol"). However, these cases are exceedingly rare and do not represent a reliable treatment option. The Milwaukee Protocol remains controversial, and its efficacy has not been consistently replicated.
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Why is it so Deadly?: Rabies virus causes severe inflammation and damage in the brain. This damage is irreversible with current medical technology.
Therefore, while PEP is highly effective if administered promptly after exposure, established clinical rabies is almost universally fatal. Prevention through vaccination of pets and avoiding contact with wild animals is crucial.
