Document Type : Review Article
Authors
1
Nursing Care Research Center in Chronic Diseases, Ahvaz Jundishapur University of Medical Sciences, Ahvaz, Iran. Department of Medical and Surgical Nursing, School of Nursing and Midwifery, Ahvaz Jundishapur University of Medical
2
Doctor of Veterinary Medicine Student, Islamic Azad University of Shoushtar, Shoushtar, Iran
3
Doctor of Veterinary Medicine Science, Islamic Azad University of Garmsar, Garmsar, Iran.
4
Doctor of Veterinary Medicine Science, Islamic Azad University of Shoushtar, Shoushtar, Iran.
5
Doctor of Veterinary Medicine Science, Islamic Azad University of Shoushtar, Shoushtar, Iran
6
Student Research Committee, Ahvaz Jundishapur University of Medical Sciences, Ahvaz, Iran
7
Cancer, Environmental and Petroleum Pollutants Research Center, Ahvaz Jundishapur University of Medical Sciences, Ahvaz, Iran
10.22092/ari.2026.371552.3962
Abstract
Rabies, a fatal viral disease of the central nervous system (CNS) that is transmitted to humans through the saliva of infected animals, primarily through dog bites, has always been a significant public health challenge in many countries, especially in developing regions. In this study, we aimed to comprehensively review the pathological, etiological, and epidemiological findings and ways to control, prevent, and treat rabies. In this regard, an extensive search was conducted across reputable international databases, including Google Scholar, PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science, using keywords related to rabies from January 2020 to December 2024. The inclusion criteria included original studies that examined different aspects of rabies. Finally, of the 1257 articles identified by keywords, 159 were selected for full-text analysis based on titles and abstracts, and 37 eligible studies were selected for comprehensive analysis. The findings showed that the rabies virus is a Lyssavirus, and its pathogenesis mechanism involves targeting neurons and causing acute encephalomyelitis. Epidemiologically, more than 95% of human rabies deaths occur in Asia and Africa, and dogs are responsible for transmitting 99% of human rabies cases. In the control and prevention section, vaccination of domestic and stray dogs was identified as the most effective method. In the field of post-exposure prevention, immediate wound washing with soap and water for 15 minutes, and the use of rabies serum and vaccine are essential. Consequently, despite significant advances in vaccination and post-exposure prophylaxis protocols, rabies remains a serious threat, and implementing integrated control programs in dog populations, increasing public awareness, and equitable access to prevention services, especially in underserved areas, are key to eliminating this disease.
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