Understanding Canine Rabies

Rabies in dogs, known as 'besnilo kod pasa', is a viral disease affecting the brain and central nervous system. It's fatal once symptoms appear, and is most commonly transmitted through saliva via bites.

Rabies has been documented since 2000 BC. In the past, 'besnilo kod pasa' was often associated with supernatural forces. It's one of the oldest known viruses that affect both animals and humans.

The rabies virus is bullet-shaped with a single-stranded RNA genome. It has a protein envelope that helps it invade nervous tissue, crucial for the virus's transmission and pathogenicity.

Initial symptoms in dogs include behavioral changes, fever, and chewing at the bite site. Progression leads to either furious rabies, with aggression and excess salivation, or paralytic rabies, causing weakness and loss of coordination.

Not all rabid animals display aggression. 'Besnilo kod pasa' can spread through licking of open wounds or mucous membranes. The virus can't penetrate intact skin but finds entry through the slightest of cuts.

Vaccination is the most effective prevention. Globally, mass canine vaccinations have significantly reduced rabies cases. Prompt post-exposure prophylaxis in humans and animals after potential exposure is critical to prevent the disease.

Initiatives like World Rabies Day on September 28 aim to raise awareness and eliminate rabies. 'Besnilo kod pasa' is a focal point, as controlling it in dogs is key to eradicating human cases.