Lack of knowledge on rabies increases human deaths

15 August 2024 04:35 pm Views - {{hitsCtrl.values.hits}} 3 Bookmark

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By Poojathmi Rivithma

Colombo, August 15 (Daily Mirror) - The lack of knowledge about rabies and the number of incidents relating to bites from animals other than dogs have led to an increase in deaths, Consultant Community Physician Dr. Athula Liyanapathirana said.

He told the Daily Mirror that the health authorities point out that the current rabies situation has now become a serious health and social issue.

Nearly 300 government hospitals are providing free anti-rabies vaccinations, even if it has been three months since an animal bite.

Meanwhile, a total of 11 people have died due to the rabies infection this year.

Dr. Liyanapathirana said that rabies can be transmitted when an animal with rabies bites, from saliva through an existing wound, or if the virus is ingested through the mucous membranes around the eyes, nose, mouth and genitals. Symptoms can appear between three weeks and three months after exposure.

However, in addition to dogs, rabies can also be transmitted by bites of animals such as cats, mongeese, foxes, squirrels, greater bandicoot rats, monkeys, civets, cows and snakes.

Comments - 3

Rip Winkle Thursday, 15 August 2024 05:47 PM

Strange statement as practically everyone in the country has known about rabies since they were kids.

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Nimal 1 Friday, 16 August 2024 07:15 AM

People have heard about rabies, but in the villages especially people have many misconceptions regarding the disease. Most people think that if the bite wounds are healed a patient may not contract rabies. Besides, many think that rabies is spread only through dogs. Hence, it is very important to make the people, especially those in the villages, knowledgeable about the disease.

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Edward Padmasiri Friday, 16 August 2024 08:08 AM

Lack of knowledge or inadequate knowledge on which animals can transmit rabies to humans and preventive measures after exposure is a problem common in rabies-endemic countries. It is good to increase awareness. Although the statement says snakes can transmit rabies, it is probably incorrect.

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