Rabies (as cause of Pharyngitis)

Extremely Rare (50 cases in US since 1990).
  • Incubation period 1 week – 6 months
Suspect early Rabies (before onset of CNS Sx) if:
  • Agitation at sight of water (hydrophobia) or when whiff of air blown across face (aerophobia)
  • Consider if recent animal bite in 3rd World, then subsequent parathesias at bite site
  • Consider if recent bat exposure (bat bites aren’t felt)

Post-Script:  CDC recommends rabies prophylaxis if you awaken from sleep & see a bat in room (or if bat is observed in a room with a child or mentally-incompetent adult [including drunks]).

See posting Sore Throat – 2.