Expectations (prognosis)
If immunization is given within 2 days of the bite, rabies is usually prevented. To date, no one in the U.S. has yet developed rabies when given the vaccine promptly and appropriately.
once the symptoms appear, few people survive the disease. Death from respiratory failure usually occurs within 7 days of symptom onset.
Complications
* allergic reaction to rabies vaccine (rare)
Calling your health care provider
Go to the emergency room or call the local emergency number (such as 911) if you are bitten by a wild or domestic animal and suspect rabies may develop.
Prevention
Prevention depends upon enforcement of the following public health policies:
* vaccination of dogs and cats every 2 years in areas of the United States where rabies exists in wild animals
* avoiding contact with animals not known to you
* vaccination of people in high-risk occupations or certain travelers
* quarantine regulations on importing dogs and other mammals in disease-free countries