The Most Terrifying Virus: Rabies
- JAYDEN SARNO
- Sep 29
- 2 min read
Viruses are disease-causing agents that can only replicate by invading the living cells of an organism. They exist everywhere on Earth and can infect nearly every species. Once inside a cell, a virus hijacks its genetic machinery, forcing it to produce thousands of copies of the virus. These copies then spread and continue the cycle of infection.
There are many types of viruses, each harming the body in different ways. For example, coronaviruses primarily attack the respiratory system in humans. But among all the viruses known in human history, one stands out as especially terrifying: rabies, because of its hidden nature, rapid progression, and almost certain fatality if untreated.
Rabies is caused by lyssaviruses, including the rabies virus and the Australian bat lyssavirus. Infection usually happens when an infected animal bites or scratches a human or another animal. The virus spreads through saliva introduced into the wound.
At first, you might not feel much beyond the pain of the bite or scratch. But this is not a time to relax. It is a medical emergency. Rabies is so dangerous because immediate treatment is essential. Once symptoms appear, the disease is virtually 100% fatal.
If a person does not receive the rabies vaccine after exposure, symptoms eventually begin. Rabies progresses through three main stages:
Incubation period During this time, the infected person has no symptoms. It can last anywhere from a few days to several months or even years.
Prodrome stage Subtle symptoms appear, such as mild fever, pain or irritation at the bite site, nausea, or even changes in mood or behavior. This stage lasts only a few days. Treatment must be given during or before this period, otherwise the disease will progress and become untreatable.
Acute neurologic period At this stage, the virus attacks the central nervous system. There are two main forms:
Furious rabies: hyperactivity and fear of water (hydrophobia) dominate.
Paralytic (dumb) rabies: paralysis is the major feature.
In both forms, symptoms may include:
Fever
Tingling or burning sensations in the skin (paresthesia)
Stiff neck (nuchal rigidity)
Muscle twitching (fasciculations)
Uncontrolled shaking or seizures (convulsions)
Rapid or difficult breathing (hyperventilation)
Excessive drooling or foaming at the mouth (hypersalivation)
As the disease progresses, breathing becomes irregular and the body weakens.
The final stage is coma and death. Once this stage is reached, survival is almost impossible.
This is what makes rabies one of the most feared viruses in history. It lurks silently, strikes suddenly, and without urgent medical care, it is always deadly.
Remember to always seek medical attention when you suspect a rabies infection. A few ways to tell is if the animal you were bitten by was acting uncontrollably, unusually angry, and also foaming at the mouth.
SOURCES:
How do I avoid rabies Jayden I’m scared