Rabies

A deadly viral infection spread through bites or scratches from infected animals, mostly dogs in India. It's preventable with prompt treatment after a bite.

InfectionAnimal bitesLast updated: 21 October 2026

Quick Summary

Primary Symptoms

Early: fever, tingling at the bite site. Later: fear of water, agitation, confusion and paralysis. Once symptoms start, it's almost always fatal.

Common Treatments

Immediately wash the wound for 15 minutes with soap and water, then get rabies vaccine (and immunoglobulin if needed) as soon as possible.

Risk Factors

Bites or scratches from dogs, cats, monkeys and other mammals, especially unvaccinated stray dogs.

OverviewSymptomsCausesTreatmentFAQ

Overview

Rabies is caused by a virus in the saliva of infected animals. It travels along nerves to the brain. India has a large share of the world's rabies deaths, mostly from dog bites.

Rabies is almost 100% preventable if the wound is cleaned and post-exposure vaccination is started quickly. Don't wait for symptoms.

Symptoms

Early symptoms

Fever, headache and tingling or pain at the bite site.

Fear of water

Painful throat spasms when trying to drink.

Agitation and confusion

With hallucinations and abnormal behaviour.

Paralysis

Weakness that spreads, leading to coma.

Causes & Risk Factors

Biological Causes

Infection with the rabies virus through a bite, scratch or lick on broken skin from an infected animal.

Key Risk Factors

  • Dog bites Most human rabies in India comes from dog bites.
  • Children Are bitten more often, especially on the face and hands.
  • Delayed care Not washing the wound or not completing vaccination.

Management & Treatment

01. Wash the wound

Wash with soap and running water for 15 minutes straight away.

02. Vaccination

Start the rabies vaccine as soon as possible and complete all doses.

03. Immunoglobulin

For severe bites, rabies immunoglobulin is given into and around the wound.

Frequently Asked Questions

What should I do after a dog bite?
Wash the wound immediately and go to a health centre the same day. Anti-rabies vaccine is free at government hospitals.
Is rabies curable once symptoms start?
Almost never, which is why treatment right after a bite is vital.
Should I get vaccinated before exposure?
Pre-exposure vaccine is advised for vets, animal handlers and some travellers.

Sources and further reading

Last updated 21 October 2026. For more detail, see these trusted health organisations.