The onset of symptoms typically occurs several days to several weeks after infection, but in rare cases, symptoms may first be seen up to one year after exposure to the virus. Initial symptoms include fever, fatigue and/or irritability, and as the infection progresses, symptoms may include seizures, hallucinations and paralysis. The prognosis is almost always fatal if left untreated until after the onset of first symptoms.

First, clean the wound. Press gently on the wound to stimulate bleeding as a way to flush out any potential source of infection, wash with warm water and mild soap, then continue rinsing with water. Use a clean cloth to slow the bleeding, apply antibiotic cream, if available, to the wound and cover with a sterile bandage. Then seek urgent medical care, no matter whether you have been previously vaccinated against rabies, or not.

The two most effective forms of prevention are

1. avoiding infected animals
2. vaccination.

The rabies vaccine usually involves a series of 3 doses given over the span of 3 to 4 weeks. The vaccine is very reliable when administered correctly, i.e., when the complete series of doses is given according to the recommended schedule via intradermal or intramuscular injection. Experienced personnel can give the vaccine via the intradermal route.