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Rabies: When Monsters are Real…from Incubation
Oct 31, 2024
Join veterinarian Monica Murphy, co-author of "Rabid," as she dives into the chilling cultural history of rabies, revealing its connections to folklore like vampires and werewolves. Wildlife biologist Kathy Nelson shares her thrilling experiences in managing rabies in raccoons by distributing vaccines from the sky. Discover how the rabies vaccine transformed our bond with pets and learn about innovative strategies in wildlife management. This engaging discussion sheds light on the science and stories behind a disease that has haunted us for centuries.
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Quick takeaways
- The cultural history of rabies intertwines with folklore, influencing human fears through narratives about vampires and werewolves.
- Innovative rabies management strategies, like aerial bait vaccination programs, have significantly reduced rabies cases among wildlife populations in the U.S.
Deep dives
The Evolution and Impact of Rabies
Rabies is a particularly insidious RNA virus primarily transmitted through animal bites. Once the virus enters the body, it targets nerve cells, gradually making its way to the brain, which leads to devastating neurological symptoms. The progression of the disease varies depending on the site of the bite, illustrating the relationship between the distance from the bite to the brain and the speed at which symptoms manifest. This slow progression has not hindered the virus's terrifying reputation, as it is virtually 100% fatal once clinical signs appear, causing fear historically among humans and shaping cultural narratives around rabies.
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