Rabies
What it is:
Rabies is a viral disease that affects the central nervous system and is almost always fatal once symptoms appear.
Cause:
It is caused by the rabies virus, typically transmitted through the bite or scratch of an infected animal—most commonly dogs, bats, raccoons, and other mammals.
Prevention:
Prevention includes vaccinating pets, avoiding contact with stray or wild animals, and seeking immediate medical care (post‑exposure prophylaxis) after any suspected exposure.
UNMD Risk Mitigation plan for Rabies (English/French)
Scorpion Stings
What it is:
A scorpion sting occurs when a scorpion injects venom into the skin, which can cause pain, swelling, and in some cases serious systemic symptoms.
Cause:
Stings are caused by accidental contact with scorpions, often when people encounter them in shoes, bedding, firewood, or outdoor areas.
Prevention:
Preventive measures include shaking out clothing and footwear, sealing cracks in buildings, using insect screens, maintaining clean surroundings, and wearing gloves or boots in scorpion‑prone areas.
UNMD Risk Mitigation plan for Scorpion Stings (English/French)
Snakebite
What it is:
A snakebite is an injury caused by the fangs of a snake, which may involve venom injection leading to local tissue damage, bleeding disorders, or neurotoxicity.
Cause:
Bites occur when humans unintentionally disturb or come too close to snakes, especially in agricultural fields, forests, or areas with dense vegetation.
Prevention:
Prevention focuses on avoiding tall grass, wearing protective boots, using a flashlight at night, keeping surroundings clear of debris, and never attempting to handle or kill snakes.
UNMD Risk Mitigation plan for Snakebite envenoming (English/French)