Is There a Cure for Rabies in Humans? Why the Search Continues

The rabies virus is one of the most frightening among known diseases, primarily because of its near-universally fatal outcome after symptoms appear. Historically, only a handful of individuals have survived the infection, making the search for a cure a daunting endeavor.

Why a Cure Is So Hard to Find

Despite the existence of post-exposure prophylaxis (PEP) for preventing rabies, a cure remains elusive. The factors contributing to this difficulty include the rarity of rabies cases, financial incentives, and the complex nature of the infection process within the Central Nervous System (CNS).

The Rarity of Rabies

Rabies is a rare disease, which means that pharmaceutical companies and researchers do not see significant financial returns from pursuing a cure. As a result, fewer resources are allocated to the study of rabies compared to more common or widespread diseases. This financial barrier has hindered the development of a cure.

Understanding Rabies: From Peripheral to Central Nervous System

Rabies primarily affects the central nervous system, including the brain and spinal cord. The virus travels from the peripheral nerves near the site of infection to the brain, leading to the onset of symptoms. Because the brain is an immune-privileged site, antibodies rarely reach there, making it challenging for the body to mount an effective defense. By the time antibodies are formed, the virus has already taken hold in the CNS and caused significant damage.

The Challenges of Treating Rabies

Prior to the appearance of symptoms, which can take anywhere from 2 to 3 months to a year or more, it is possible to receive a rabies vaccine as part of post-exposure prophylaxis to prevent the disease from developing. However, if the virus has already progressed, the outcome is almost always fatal. Symptoms, once they appear, escalate rapidly, leading to severe neurological damage and ultimately, death.

Historical Attempts to Treat Rabies

In the ancient medical literature, such as Avicenna's The Canon of Medicine, various treatments for rabies are documented. For instance, Avicenna recommended using Rue Ruta, burned river crabs, Gentiana, Alyssum, and a bandage of Opoponax in vinegar and olive oil. These treatments, while not effective, offer insight into the historical understanding of rabies and may inspire new methods today.

The Milwaukee Protocol: A Notable Exception

Despite the rarity of survival instances, one notable exception is the Milwaukee protocol. This aggressive treatment protocol combines the use of antiviral drugs with a medically-induced coma to halt the progression of rabies. While this method has only been successfully applied a few times, it provides a glimmer of hope for future advancements in rabies treatment.

Conclusion

The search for a cure for rabies continues, and while progress may be slow, it is crucial to continue researching and developing new treatments. The historical context and current understanding of the rabies virus provide a foundation for ongoing research and potential breakthroughs in the future.

Key Terms: rabies, rabies cure, rabies treatment