Rabies: Signs and Symptoms
Wildlife exhibit several classic symptoms when infected with rabies. People and pets should take care to avoid animals exhibiting the following signs and symptoms commonly associated with rabies:
- Nocturnal animals active during daytime
- Apathetic toward humans
- Overly aggressive
- Excessive salivation
- Pacing, walking in circles
- Chewing on limbs or tail
Initial symptoms in humans may include:
- General flu-like symptoms
- Weakness
- Headache
- Fever
- Inflammation of brain
Clinical symptoms in humans include:
- Anxiety
- Paranoia
- Tingling in extremities
- Delirium
- Agitation
- Insomnia
- Difficulty swallowing
- Paralysis
Once clinical symptoms begin, the disease is almost always fatal. To date, fewer than 20 people have survived a rabies infection. People and pets that are exposed to rabid animals should receive post-exposure vaccinations to prevent the disease.