Read condition-specific symptoms and clinical context for Rabies virus. A virus that is preventable after exposure but fatal once symptoms begin.
CDC describes rabies as a fatal but preventable viral disease that spreads to people through bites and scratches from infected animals and primarily affects the central nervous system. WHO states that dog bites and scratches cause up to 99% of human rabies cases. Care given after an exposure and before symptoms start is nearly 100% effective at preventing the disease.
CDC states the virus must travel to the brain before symptoms appear, an incubation period that may last weeks to months, and that severe disease usually appears within 2 weeks of the first symptoms.
Possible symptoms: Flu-like illness with weakness, fever or headache; Discomfort, prickling or itching at the bite site; Anxiety; Confusion or agitation; Hallucinations; Being very thirsty but panicked by fluids; Having lots of saliva.
CDC states that anyone who may have been exposed should urgently seek medical attention: post-exposure prophylaxis includes wound care, rabies immune globulin and a series of four or five vaccines, and is nearly 100% effective when given after exposure. WHO advises immediately washing a bite or scratch with water and soap for at least 15 minutes and seeking care. Once symptoms appear, the disease is nearly always fatal.
Source check: 2026-09-19. Educational content; independent scientific review remains pending.