Why do some people need a rabies vaccine after a dog bite?
Quick Answer
Rabies is almost always fatal once symptoms begin, so vaccination after exposure can stop the virus before it reaches the brain. Post-exposure treatment often includes wound cleaning, rabies immunoglobulin, and a vaccine series.
The Full Story
Rabies virus moves from the bite site along nerves toward the brain, which is why immediate treatment matters. If the virus is still localized, post-exposure prophylaxis can prevent the disease from developing. This usually involves thorough wound washing, rabies immune globulin for some patients, and a vaccine series over several days. Once rabies symptoms appear, the disease is nearly always fatal. Human rabies deaths are now rare in places with good access to vaccination and post-exposure care, but the virus still causes tens of thousands of deaths globally each year, mostly in Asia and Africa.
Key Facts
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"Why is rabies so urgent? Because after symptoms start, it is almost always too late."
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