Effective Rabies Prevention: Vaccination and Awareness Are Key

Rabies remains a serious health threat in many parts of the world, yet it’s a disease that can be prevented effectively. This stark reality highlights the importance of preventive measures over post-infection remedies.

Reports of hyena attacks in Kiambu County, particularly in the Juja area, have captured public concern. The attacks are distressing for a population already grappling with economic and social challenges. More alarming is the possibility that some of these animals could be carriers of the rabies virus, a concern amplified by the disease’s virulent nature.

Rabies is a viral, zoonotic tropical disease primarily transmitted through the infected saliva of animals. Dog bites and scratches account for a staggering 99 percent of human rabies cases. The virus spreads through bites, scratches, or direct contact with infected saliva on mucous membranes, such as the eyes, mouth, or open wounds.

Once the rabies virus reaches the central nervous system and clinical symptoms appear, the disease tends to be fatal, as noted by Dr. Rachel Kerubo. At such an advanced stage, the disease becomes irreversible. Thus, providing palliative care becomes essential. The World Health Organization highlights that children between five and 14 years are especially vulnerable.

Upon exposure to rabies through a bite or scratch, the virus can enter the peripheral nervous system, potentially reaching the brain. It can also replicate in muscle tissue near the entry site during the incubation period. Before the virus invades the central nervous system, symptoms like fever, unusual pain, and paresthesia such as tingling or burning at the wound site may occur. Once it advances to the central nervous system, fatal inflammation of the brain and spinal cord develops.

Despite the grim prognosis associated with clinical rabies, preventive strategies offer hope. Effective measures include mass canine vaccination, which has shown 100 percent efficacy in halting rabies transmission. Public awareness campaigns highlighting the importance of canine vaccination and safe animal handling are also crucial in reducing transmission risks. Human vaccination plays a significant role both pre- and post-exposure.

Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis (PrEP) vaccination is advised for high-risk individuals, such as veterinarians and animal handlers, to prevent potential rabies transmission. For those with ongoing exposure risks, periodic booster doses may be necessary.

Post-Exposure Prophylaxis (PEP) is essential for those potentially exposed to rabies. This includes prompt wound cleaning and a series of rabies vaccinations. Immediate and thorough washing of the wound with soap and water for at least 15 minutes significantly reduces the viral load. This is followed by a series of rabies vaccinations administered on days zero, three, seven, and 14.

While rabies poses a significant health risk, the combination of preventive measures, including vaccination and public education, can dramatically reduce the incidence of this deadly yet preventable disease.