Protecting Yourself from Rabies
Whether it be a stray cat or neighbor’s dog chained in the back yard, rabid animals are a threat to your safety. Rabies is a zoonotic disease which means it can be passed from animals to humans. Human victims usually contract rabies from an animal, often from a dog or a large rodent. Though it is typically wild animals that carry the disease, domesticated animals and pets are also susceptible.
What is Rabies?
Rabies is an acute viral disease that can cause inflammation of the brain and, if untreated, is fatal in humans. It is also called hydrophobia because one of its symptoms can cause the victim to fear water. Other symptoms include:
- Muscle spasms
- Extreme thirst
- Salivation
- Confusion
- Fever
The disease is transmitted through saliva, like in a dog bite.
Vaccinations
There is a vaccine for rabies that prevents the disease. However, if a vaccinated person is bit by a rabid animal they must receive a follow-up vaccine to ensure that the disease does not manifest itself and multiply. Should a rabid animal bite victim not have been vaccinated they can receive a series of vaccinations following the incident to stop the disease.
Call an Appleton Dog Bite Lawyer
If you or a loved one has contracted rabies from a dog bite or attack from some other rabid animal, it is important that you hold the pet owner responsible. Contact the Appleton dog bite attorney of Habush, Habush, & Rottier, S.C. at 800.472.9334 for a free initial consultation.