Medical Article

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โรคพิษสุนัขบ้า (Rabies) อันตรายถึงชีวิตแต่ป้องกันได้ หากได้รับการดูแลอย่างถูกต้องและทันท่วงที

Rabies is a highly severe viral infectious disease. Once neurological symptoms appear, the mortality rate is nearly 100%. However, this disease can be prevented if the wound is cleaned and vaccination is given immediately after exposure. In Thailand, rabies is still occasionally found, especially from mammals such as dogs, cats, monkeys, or stray animals.
&nbsp;
<h2>What is Rabies?</h2>
It is caused by a virus in the Lyssavirus group, which affects the central nervous system. The virus can be transmitted from mammals to humans through saliva, such as by biting, scratching, or contact with open wounds. After entering the body, the virus travels through the nerves to the brain, causing encephalitis, a severe condition that can lead to death.
&nbsp;
<h2>How is Rabies Transmitted?</h2>
All mammals can be carriers. It is commonly found in
<ul>
<li>Dogs</li>
<li>Cats</li>
<li>Monkeys</li>
<li>Bats</li>
<li>Unvaccinated stray animals</li>
</ul>
&nbsp;
Risky exposures include
<ul>
<li>Bites that break the skin and cause bleeding</li>
<li>Scratches that cause skin abrasions</li>
<li>Animal saliva contacting open wounds, eyes, or mucous membranes of the mouth</li>
</ul>
Even small wounds can pose a risk.
&nbsp;
<h2>Symptoms of Rabies in Humans</h2>
The incubation period averages about 1–3 months but can be shorter or longer depending on the wound location and viral load.
&nbsp;
<h4>Initial Stage</h4>
<ul>
<li>Low-grade fever</li>
<li>Headache</li>
<li>Fatigue</li>
<li>Burning pain or numbness at the wound site</li>
</ul>
&nbsp;
<h4>Neurological Stage</h4>
<ul>
<li>Fear of water (Hydrophobia)</li>
<li>Fear of wind</li>
<li>Difficulty swallowing</li>
<li>Restlessness</li>
<li>Seizures</li>
<li>Paralysis</li>
</ul>
&nbsp;
At this stage, the disease is very severe.
&nbsp;
<h2>What to Do If Bitten by a Dog?</h2>
The correct first aid approach is immediate management after exposure, which is the most important step.
&nbsp;
<h3>1. Wash the Wound Immediately</h3>
<ul>
<li>Rinse continuously with running water for at least 15 minutes</li>
<li>Use soap to clean the wound area</li>
<li>Apply an antiseptic such as povidone-iodine</li>
</ul>
&nbsp;
Proper wound washing helps reduce the amount of virus.
&nbsp;
<h3>2. Seek Medical Evaluation</h3>
<ul>
<li>Rabies vaccination</li>
<li>Rabies Immunoglobulin (RIG) administration in high-risk cases</li>
</ul>
&nbsp;
Do not wait to see symptoms because the disease usually develops slowly but severely.
&nbsp;
<h2>Types of Rabies Vaccines?</h2>
1. Post-Exposure Prophylaxis (PEP) is used in cases of bites, scratches, or risky exposure. The full course must be completed for maximum effectiveness.
&nbsp;
2. Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis (PrEP) is suitable for high-risk individuals such as
<ul>
<li>Veterinarians</li>
<li>Animal control personnel</li>
<li>People working closely with wildlife</li>
<li>Children who frequently have contact with animals</li>
</ul>
&nbsp;
<h2>Rabies Prevention</h2>
<ul>
<li>Vaccinate pets annually</li>
<li>Avoid contact with stray animals</li>
<li>Teach children not to play with unknown animals</li>
<li>Clean wounds and see a doctor immediately if bitten</li>
</ul>
&nbsp;
Rabies is a serious disease that should not be overlooked, even with minor wounds. Medical evaluation is the most important step. Immediate wound cleaning and proper vaccination can prevent the disease. If you or your family members are bitten, scratched, or suspect exposure, seek medical evaluation immediately.

Rabies is a severe and life-threatening viral infection. Once neurological symptoms appear, it is virtually incurable. However, it is effectively preventable if wounds are cleaned immediately and vaccination is received promptly after exposure. Even minor wounds should not be overlooked, especially in countries like Thailand where rabies is still prevalent.

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Rabies is a life-threatening disease, but it is preventable if treated correctly and promptly.

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