Education and Prevention Tips

Abstract Although rabies is nearly always fatal once clinical signs and symptoms have manifested, there are multiple modes available to prevent the disease, including rabies preexposure vaccination of domestic animals. Preexposure vaccination is also available for people involved in professions or activities that place them at high risk for rabies exposure. Physicians and veterinarians along with their staff, laboratorians who work with rabies virus, and others who are at high risk for exposure to rabies should implement usage of personal protective equipment. There are educational materials available that cover ways to avoid being exposed to rabies, including techniques for bite avoidance. Bats provide special concerns for potential rabies exposure scenarios. Education of children on these topics is of paramount importance.