Rabies

Demographics and Such

 

Incidents of rabies in the US are very infrequent, averaging one or two a year, very different from the 100+ cases in 1900. Worldwide, although, there are estimated between 30,000 to 50,000 cases a year. Rabies is most common in developing countries in Africa, Latin America, and Asia. More than 95% of human deaths occur in Africa and Asia. 

 

40% of people who are infected by the rabies virus are children (especially boys) under the age of 15.  Also, people who's work brings them in contact with many animals, such as veterinarians, animal control, and wildlife workers, are at high risk of contracting the disease as well. 

 

While Rabies is 100% vaccine- preventable, it is also an problematic disease in almost every country in the world. Once symptoms of rabies start showing, the disease is almost always fatal.