Deaths due to rabies in Shivamogga, India: Case series and review

Abstract

Rabies is a fatal disease and deaths due to this have been on the increase. This is due to a lack of awareness leading to failure to obtain proper treatment. We report five cases confirmed to be rabies virus positive, with Negri bodies in their neuronal tissues. Due to a lack of awareness, the individuals are failing to take proper postexposure prophylaxis. The people are avoiding going to health care hospitals as a result of which, after varying incubatory periods the individuals eventually are succumbing to the illness. They are exhibiting characteristic encephalitic symptoms, as a result of this deadly disease. Proper prevention and management, along with awareness among the people can decrease the fatality. Effective programs and continuous surveillance of rabid dogs, to effectively control their population and vaccinate them on a consecutive basis, can combat the virus and stop its spread.