How Is Rabies Spread?
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Bite Exposure
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The rabies virus is most commonly transmitted among mammals through the bite of an infected animal. Even if a bite is small, it constitutes exposure as long as teeth have penetrated the skin. With the majority of American house pets vaccinated for rabies, the risk of bite exposure is greatest among animals in the wild. Bats can be particularly problematic simply because their bite can be small and difficult to immediately detect. With the exception of Hawaii, each U.S. state has bats that have tested positive for rabies. Severity of wound, wound location and animal type can all affect the likelihood of rabies exposure.
Nonbite Exposure
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The rabies virus remains infectious unless dry or dessicated. The most infectious materials capable of transmitting the rabies virus are brain/nervous tissue and saliva. If these materials come into contact with open wounds, mucous membranes or abrasions, the exposure can cause a nonbite rabies infection. Rabies manifestations are very rarely the result of a nonbite exposure. However, any and all exposures should always be evaluated by a professional to determine if further action is necessary.
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What to Do If Exposure is Suspected
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When dealing with potential rabies cases, it is always best to err on the side of caution and contact a medical professional. However, there are certain things to take into consideration when trying to determine if exposure has occured. With wild animals, consider the nature of the attack. In most cases, bite exposure will be the result of an unprovoked attack. Infected animals will give chase and attack humans/animals for no apparent reason. If a person is bitten while trying to feed or handle a wild animal that is seemingly healthy, there is little chance that a rabies exposure has taken place.
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