Here's why:
* Rabies is a deadly disease: It attacks the nervous system and can quickly lead to paralysis, coma, and death.
* Symptoms may not appear immediately: The incubation period for rabies can be anywhere from a few days to several months. This means you could be infected without knowing it, and the virus could be spreading even if you don't feel sick.
* Treatment is most effective early: Post-exposure prophylaxis (PEP), which involves a series of vaccinations and potentially immune globulin, is most effective in preventing rabies if started right away.
Don't take any chances. If you are bitten by a dog, or even scratched or licked by a dog that you suspect might have rabies, seek immediate medical attention.