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Rabies

rabies virus

Rabies is also known as hydrophobia, because one of the symptoms is paralysis of the throat muscles leading to a fear of water. This viral encephalitis is spread by infected mammals. Dogs are responsible for most of the cases worldwide; in B.C., bats are currently the only known reservoir. Bats and other wild animals deserve our respect, and should not be touched or bothered, which can lead to potentially harmful contacts. The disease can be prevented by vaccination, but the best prevention is avoidance.

Information for Health Professionals

Did you know?

An estimated 10 million rabies exposures occur annually around the world. Of those, approximately 55,000 deaths occur each year, mostly children.

Last Updated: March 14, 2012