Rabies Immune Response Detected in Amazon Populations

Rabies Immune Response Detected in Amazon Populations

Central nervous system is the main target of rabies virus. Infection can subsequently cause brain damage and death. Manifestations of rabies consist of headache, generalized weakness and fever. Symptoms that are pathognomonic to rabies include paralysis, hallucinations, hydrophobia and aerophobia. After the establishment of these symptoms, death usually occurs.

Large percentage of cases of rabies in the United States is due to wild animals that are infected by rabies virus. The best way of protecting one’s self is through vaccinations that can be administered after exposure to rabies.

Recently, there is a study that shows that natural immunity can occur in communities that are high risk of acquiring rabies virus. Population in certain communities has developed antibodies due to constant and regular exposure to the said virus. Although an immune response may develop, treatment after contact with animals that has rabies virus is necessary.

As presented in the study of the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, those living in Amazon communities are able to fight off the rabies virus after exposure without getting the proper treatment. According to their research, these people have regular exposure to the virus and eventually developed the necessary immune response to be able to survive infection.

Posted by George Daniels on Friday August 03 2012, 11:57 AM EST. Ref: CDC. Link. All trademarks acknowledged. Filed under Featured News, Health. Comments and Trackbacks closed. Follow responses: RSS 2.0