Rabies: Why It Is Almost Always Fatal Once Symptoms Start

Rabies is one of the deadliest infections in the world. What makes it even more alarming is this simple fact: once symptoms appear, rabies is almost always fatal. 

In the Philippines, animal bites are common. Many households have dogs or cats, and stray animals are present in many communities. Because of this, some people underestimate the risk. They assume that if the wound is small or if the animal looks healthy, there is nothing to worry about. 

Unfortunately, rabies does not work that way. 

What Exactly Is Rabies? 

Rabies is a viral infection that affects the brain and nervous system. It is usually transmitted through the saliva of an infected animal, most commonly through a bite. It can also spread if infected saliva enters an open wound or comes into contact with the eyes, nose, or mouth. 

Once the virus enters the body, it travels through the nerves toward the brain. This process can take weeks to months, which is why some people feel fine after being bitten. During this period, there may be no symptoms at all. 

But once the virus reaches the brain and symptoms begin, survival becomes extremely rare. 

Why Is Rabies So Deadly? 

The early symptoms of rabies can look harmless. Fever, headache, fatigue, or tingling at the bite site may appear first. Because these symptoms resemble common viral illnesses, they are often ignored. 

As the infection progresses, more severe signs develop. These may include anxiety, confusion, agitation, difficulty swallowing, fear of water, hallucinations, and paralysis. At this stage, the virus has already caused significant damage to the brain. 

There is currently no proven cure for rabies once clinical symptoms appear. Treatment at that point focuses on supportive care, but the outcome is almost always fatal. 

This is why rabies is considered nearly 100 percent fatal after symptom onset but 100 percent preventable with timely vaccination. 

The Danger of Waiting 

One of the most dangerous mistakes is waiting to see if symptoms will develop. Some people observe the animal first. Others rely on home remedies or assume that a small scratch is not serious. 

Even minor bites or scratches can transmit the virus. You cannot determine if an animal has rabies just by looking at it—an infected animal, similar to humans, may not immediately show obvious signs. 

Immediate and thorough washing of the wound with soap and running water for at least 15 minutes is the first step. However, washing alone is not enough. Medical evaluation is necessary to determine if post-exposure vaccination is required. 

Delaying medical care can cost a life. 

Rabies Is Preventable 

The good news is that rabies can be prevented if managed properly and early. 

Post-exposure prophylaxis, which includes rabies vaccination and sometimes rabies immunoglobulin, is highly effective when given promptly after exposure. The vaccine works by helping your body develop protection before the virus reaches the brain. 

The key is timing. The earlier the treatment is started, the better the protection. 

Protect Yourself and Your Family with HealthFirst Clinic 

At HealthFirst Clinic, we provide post-exposure rabies vaccination, and medical guidance to ensure you receive timely and appropriate care. Our team can help determine the level of risk and the necessary steps to protect your health. 

Do not wait. Visit HealthFirst Clinic immediately after any animal bite or exposure and protect yourself and your loved ones. 

(02) 8860 9740 

Sources 

1. World Health Organization. Rabies Fact Sheet. 

2. Department of Health Philippines. National Rabies Prevention and Control Program. 

3. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Rabies Clinical Overview. 

4. World Organisation for Animal Health. Rabies Situation and Prevention.