Rabies has been reported in foxes (23 cases), dogs (18 cases), and cats (10 cases).
Besides that, some cases were detected in raccoon dogs (3), roe deer (1), wild cats (1), and cattle (1).
In addition, one rabid hedgehog was identified. Experts remind once again that, for safety’s sake, any contact with wild animals should be avoided, and pets should be vaccinated regularly against rabies.
According to CNMVL, most cases of animal rabies were reported in July in the Vladimir, Chelyabinsk, Nizhny Novgorod, Sverdlovsk regions, and in the Krasnoyarsk Territory.
People usually get rabies from the bite of a rabid dog. The virus spreads through the saliva of infected animals. Six people died of rabies in Russia in 2021.
Information Note: Rabies is an infectious disease caused by the Rabies virus. The virus causes inflammation in the brain. Both people and animals are susceptible to rabies. The virus is spread to people from rabid animals through bites, scratches, or licking, usually via saliva.
To prevent infection, the bitten area should be washed thoroughly with soapy water, then hydrogen peroxide and iodine should be applied. After that, one should immediately receive a full post-exposure vaccination course for rabies.
Experts warn that rabies is a particularly dangerous viral disease with a 100% mortality rate. Rabies can only be prevented, as there is no effective treatment for an established infection. If the exposed person doesn’t receive a post-exposure vaccination, the disease will cause death.
