Maharashtra woman dies of rabies 3 days after completing vaccination course; Know symptoms & prevention tips for the zoonotic disease

A 21-year-old woman from Maharashtra died of rabies three days after she completed the anti-rabies vaccination course.

Kolhapur resident Srishti Shinde was bitten by a stray dog on February 3. Srishti took all five doses of the anti-rabies vaccine after she was bitten. However, days later, she developed a fever and lost strength in both her legs.

She was admitted to a private hospital where several tests were conducted, and, as her condition deteriorated, was put on a ventilator. The test results confirmed rabies infection.

She was later taken to a government hospital for further treatment, but she died the next day.

What is Rabies?

Rabies is a deadly viral disease affecting the central nervous system. The rabies virus is usually transmitted through a bite. It spreads to people and animals via saliva, usually through bites, scratches or direct contact with mucosa (e.g. eyes, mouth or open wounds). Once clinical symptoms appear, rabies is virtually 100% fatal.

Symptoms of Rabies

Initial symptoms of rabies include generic signs like fever, pain and unusual or unexplained tingling, pricking, or burning sensations at the wound site.

Symptoms then progress to cerebral dysfunction, anxiety, confusion, and agitation. As the disease progresses, the person may experience delirium, abnormal behavior, hallucinations, hydrophobia (fear of water), and insomnia.

How to cure Rabies?

There is no cure for rabies once it has developed. However, there is a post-exposure prophylaxis (PEP) vaccine that can be given to people who have been bitten or exposed to rabies. The PEP vaccine is very effective at preventing rabies if it is given promptly after exposure.

How to prevent Rabies?

The best way to prevent rabies is to vaccinate your pets and to avoid contact with wild animals. If you are bitten or scratched by an animal, wash the wound immediately with soap and water and seek medical attention immediately.