World Rabies Day

Susanna Sternberg Lewerin, Professor in Epizootiology and disease control at SLU, answers three questions about this deadly disease:

Rabies does not occur in Sweden – do we need to celebrate World Rabies Day?

"Absolutely! Rabies is a risk also in Sweden. Many dogs and cats are brought to Sweden from areas where the disease is present. If they are not properly vaccinated, or if they are vaccinated after they have been infected, they can bring the disease here".

What is rabies and how is it spread?

"Rabies is a viral disease transmitted through the saliva of infected animals. The disease causes aggression, so infected dogs and cats (and wild animals) bite and spread the infection. The disease is fatal and painful – in the final stages, the animal/patient suffers from painful convulsions and hallucinations. The time between infection and the onset of symptoms can be several months".

If you suspect rabies, what should you do?

"You should contact a vet immediately, who will contact the relevant authorities and decide on immediate measures to prevent the spread of infection. It is important that all information about a suspected infected animal is passed immediately to the veterinary authorities so that the infection can be traced and stopped. If you have been bitten by an animal that may have rabies, you should contact an infectious disease doctor immediately, and if this has happened in Sweden, you must also ensure that a veterinarian is contacted to take action regarding the animal".

Find out more about the World Rabies Day and join virtual events.