Rabies virus

What is the rabies virus?

When an animal that has the rabies virus bites a child, the virus is transmitted to the child through the animal’s saliva.

In the United States, the following animals most often carry and transmit the rabies virus:

• Bats
• Coyotes
• Dogs (usually stray)
• Foxes
• Raccoons
• Skunks

Once a child begins showing the signs and symptoms of the rabies virus, the disease almost always results in fatality. This is why it is critical that all children (as well as family dogs) be vaccinated against rabies.

What are the signs and symptoms of the rabies virus?

• Agitation
• Anxiety
• Confusion
• Excessive salivation
• Fever
• Hallucinations
• Headache
• Insomnia
• Hyperactivity
• Nausea or vomiting
• Partial paralysis 
• Trouble swallowing