Jakarta, ThedailyID — Dogs remain the most common animals responsible for transmitting rabies to humans. Knowing the warning signs can help people avoid potentially dangerous contact.
Rabies can spread through the saliva of an infected animal. Transmission can occur through bites, scratches or contact with infected saliva.
Besides dogs, cats, bats and monkeys can also transmit the virus. However, dogs remain the most common source of human rabies infections.
Once symptoms develop, rabies can be fatal. Therefore, people should take any suspected exposure seriously.
Here are six signs that may indicate a dog has rabies.
1. Sudden Changes in Behavior
A rabid dog may suddenly behave differently.
A normally calm dog may become restless or unusually agitated. It may also become difficult to calm down.
2. Difficulty Swallowing
Rabies can affect the muscles involved in swallowing.
A dog that suddenly struggles to swallow food or water may show a possible sign of infection.
However, difficulty swallowing can have other causes. A veterinarian should assess the condition.
3. Excessive Drooling
Dogs can naturally drool, especially when they see or smell food.
However, unusually heavy drooling can be a warning sign. It may occur when rabies affects the muscles needed for swallowing.
4. Seizures or Paralysis
As the infection progresses, a dog can lose control of its muscles.
The animal may experience seizures, paralysis or both. These symptoms require immediate veterinary attention.
5. Fear of Water
A rabid dog may appear unable to drink or swallow water.
This can look like a fear of water. However, the condition is linked to problems with muscle control rather than ordinary fear.
6. Aggressive Behavior
Rabies can cause unusual aggression in dogs.
An infected dog may bark, growl or attack without an obvious reason. Fear, pain and confusion can contribute to these behavioral changes.
Still, aggression does not automatically mean a dog has rabies. Other conditions can also cause aggressive behavior.
People should avoid approaching or handling a dog showing unusual symptoms. If a person has been bitten or scratched by a potentially infected animal, they should seek medical attention immediately.
