World Rabies Day: Know the animals that can transmit the virus

New Delhi: Did you know that September 28th is celebrated as World Rabies Day every year? Raising awareness about rabies prevention is crucial. Louis Pasteur developed the rabies vaccine. Getting the rabies vaccine at the right time can save your life. However, delaying the vaccination can be fatal. Rabies from Dog, Cat, and Bat Bites Most people believe that rabies is caused by dog bites. Many may know that cats can also spread rabies. This is completely true, but many may be unaware that rabies can also be caused by the bites of other animals. For your information, bat bites can also cause rabies. Whose bites can cause rabies? Even the bite of a seemingly innocent raccoon can increase the risk of rabies. Besides dogs and cats, rats are also carriers of the rabies virus. For your information, squirrels can also carry the deadly rabies virus. Did you know that rabies can be transmitted through a skunk bite? You might be surprised to learn that a fox bite can also cause rabies. Precautions are Important Animals like rabbits, monkeys, and jackals can also spread rabies. If you have been bitten by a dog, cat, or rat, you should be cautious. If you have been bitten by any rabies-carrying animal and you experience symptoms such as fever, headache, fatigue, muscle pain, sore throat, vomiting, or diarrhea, you should immediately consult a doctor and get a rabies vaccine. History World Rabies Day was started in 2007 in partnership with the Lion Hearts Foundation and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. September 28th is celebrated because it is the death anniversary of the great scientist Louis Pasteur. Louis Pasteur developed the first rabies vaccine. Therefore, September 28th was chosen to commemorate his contributions and raise awareness about rabies. Significance This is a disease that is completely preventable. Unfortunately, rabies still claims thousands of lives each year in many parts of the world. The disease is usually spread through bites or scratches from infected animals such as dogs, cats, and bats. The main purpose of celebrating this day is to raise awareness about the dangers of rabies, preventative measures, and the importance of vaccinating pets. Theme Like every year, this year too, a special theme has been set. The theme for the year 2025 is 'Act Now: You, Me, Community.' This theme signifies that rabies prevention is not just an individual's job, but a collective responsibility for all of us.