Rabies can be transmitted through the saliva of a sick animal, including pets. Margarita Provotorova, one of the leading specialists of the CMD Molecular Diagnostic Center of the Rospotrebnadzor Central Research Institute of Epidemiology, told socialbites.ca about this.
“You can get infected even from a bite. For example, if the saliva of an animal gets on the mucous membranes of the mouth, eyes, nasal cavity or a wound on the skin. Therefore, take care that your pet is vaccinated, ”said Provotorova.
The doctor also added that the excessive affection of animals, the desire to lick a person is a reason to be cautious.
“Do not caress or play with a wild fox. The view that the affectionate little animal is definitely not rabid is wrong. This is a big myth that could cost lives, as effective drugs for rabies have yet to be developed,” Provotorova summarized.
Earlier, Rospotrebnadzor reported that from the beginning of the year to May 20, 2022, more than 61,000 people who were bitten or scratched by animals sought medical help. A Russian died of rabies.