Rabies is a highly contagious infection which attacks the central nervous system. It is caused by a virus that enters the body through the bite of an infected animal or through the contact of infected saliva on a cut or graze.

The incubation period is usually between 30 to 70 days, although in some cases it can be a short as 9 days or even take several months. The reason being the time it takes the virus to reach the spinal cord and brain varies depending on the site of the original infection. Not everyone who is bitten by an infected animal develops rabies.

There is little treatment for rabies. Once the disease has taken hold it is invariably fatal. If the disease is caught in the incubation period its development may be prevented. The wound or bite should be thoroughly cleaned and then an antiserum given.

Rabies is very rare in the United Kingdom but is endemic in Europe. Vaccines are available to protect vets, farmers and others, whose occupations put them at risk from the disease. There is a specific vaccine available for domestic animals.