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Category FAQs Search : Rabies

Question: How does Rabies develop in human?

Answer: After entering the human body, the rabies virus progresses from the innermost layer of tissue below the human skin (called subcutaneous tissue), or from muscle, into peripheral nerves (i.e. the nerves in the body which are outside the brain or spinal cord). The virus migrates along nerves to the spinal cord and brain at an estimated speed of 12–24 mm a day. The infected person exhibits behavioural changes and clinical signs when the virus reaches the brain. The incubation period ranges from a few days to several months, and can be as long as 1 year.

(Source: World Health Organization, 03 Dec 2024)

Source Link: https://iris.who.int/bitstream/handle/10665/205089/B5010.pdf