Viral disease, usually transmitted via a dog bite, that travels to the brain by following the peripheral nerves, and causes encephalitis
The incubation period is usually a few months
Treatment:
1) Attempt to capture the dog/animal
2) If dog can not be captured, assume rabid, and treat with post exposure prophylaxis
3) If dog captured and does not show signs of rabies, observe dog for 10 days and see if any symptoms develop
4) Treat head and neck bites with post exposure prophylaxis immediately!
**Post exposure prophylaxis includes BOTH active and passive immunization
Notes:
Bats are a major reservoir for rabies and ANY direct contact requires post-exposure rabies prophylaxis
