A GOVERNMENT healthcare specialist warned last week that people should beware of contracting rabies during summer, as the incidence of the disease generally rises during hot season.

Dr Khin Maung Lwin, the director of the Central Health Education Department under the Ministry of Health, said rabies is usually passed on to humans through the bites of animals whose saliva is infected with the virus.

“The virus spreads much more rapidly in hot season than in cold season, especially through dogs. People need to be vigilant for the virus and take care of their pets by getting them vaccinated,” he said.

“Stray dogs pose a danger as well. People need to understand that the dogs they treat with kindness might be carrying a virus that can lead to death,” he said.

The incubation period of the virus is about seven to 14 days. Dogs with the disease often exhibit frothy mouths as their neck muscled shrink, preventing the swallowing of water and food.

“The disease can cause death if the virus infects the brain,” said Dr Khin Maung Lwin.

Rabies can infect anyone, even those who have been vaccinated against the disease, he said, adding that it can also be passed to healthcare workers through the saliva of people who have been infected.

Healthcare specialists warn that anyone bitten by an animal suspected of carrying rabies should seek medical help as quickly as possible. Treatment usually consists of a series of at least three injections over the course of 30 or more days.