Understanding Rabies: Causes, Symptoms, Transmission, and Prevention

Rabies, also known as mad dog disease, is currently a topic of concern in the community due to several cases of children dying from exposure to the virus. Nusdianto Triaksono, a lecturer at Airlangga University, explained that rabies can be transmitted from animals to humans or animals to animals through bites. The virus, which is present in the saliva of infected animals, can enter the body through open wounds or scratches.

Once the virus enters the body, it can damage the brain and disrupt the central nervous system. Nusdianto emphasized that wherever the body is bitten, the virus will eventually reach the brain or central nervous system. The mortality rate of rabies is alarmingly high, with 100-156 deaths per year in Indonesia and a case fatality rate of almost 100 percent. This highlights the ongoing threat of rabies to public health.

Statistics show that 98 percent of rabies cases are transmitted through dog bites, while 2 percent are transmitted by cats and monkeys. Infected animals may exhibit aggressive behavior, biting anything in their path. There is also a paralytic stage where the animal becomes silent and may experience paralysis. Livestock that are bitten by rabid animals can also be affected, showing symptoms such as fear of water or light.

Nusdianto advised the public to report any suspected cases of rabies exposure in their pets to veterinarians or the Animal Husbandry Service. In the case of animal bites, it is important to catch and safely contain the animal for examination to determine if it has rabies. Bite victims should seek immediate treatment at the nearest health service and consider vaccination as a preventive measure. Rabies vaccination can be done once a year and can be obtained through local veterinarians or livestock services.

Airlangga University also conducts mass rabies vaccination campaigns to support the government’s goal of achieving a rabies-free Indonesia by 2030. These efforts are carried out during important events such as World Veterinary Day or the rabies anniversary. Nusdianto, Deputy Director for Medical Services, Education, Research, and Veterinary Nursing at Airlangga University Animal Hospital, emphasized the importance of increasing vaccination rates to combat the spread of rabies.

In conclusion, rabies remains a significant public health threat in Indonesia. It is crucial for pet owners to be vigilant and report any suspected cases of rabies exposure, while bite victims should seek immediate medical attention and consider vaccination as a preventive measure. Efforts such as mass vaccination campaigns are being carried out to achieve a rabies-free Indonesia by 2030.

What are the factors contributing to the high mortality rate of rabies in Indonesia

Rabies, also referred to as mad dog disease, is currently stirring concern in the community as there have been several cases of children losing their lives after being exposed to the virus. Nusdianto Triaksono, a lecturer at Airlangga University, explained that rabies can be transmitted through bites from animals to humans or animals to animals. The virus is present in the saliva of infected animals and can enter the body through open wounds or scratches.

Once the virus enters the body, it starts damaging the brain and disrupting the central nervous system. Nusdianto emphasized that regardless of where the body is bitten, the virus will eventually make its way to the brain or central nervous system. The mortality rate of rabies is alarmingly high, with Indonesia witnessing 100-156 deaths each year and a case fatality rate that nearly reaches 100 percent.