Transmission

Rabies spreads through saliva from infected mammals — most commonly dogs, but also bats, monkeys and cats. Bites, scratches and licks on broken skin can transmit. Once symptoms develop, rabies is virtually 100% fatal — vaccination is the only reliable defence.

Geography

Present in over 150 countries — especially across Asia and Africa where over 99% of human deaths occur. India alone reports ~20,000 deaths/year. Bats are a risk worldwide including in the UK and US.

Immunity

Pre-exposure vaccination (3 doses over 21 days) gives ~5 years of protection and dramatically simplifies care if you’re bitten — only 2 booster doses needed rather than the full 4-dose schedule plus immunoglobulin.