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Ch. 18 - Practical Applications of Immunology
Tortora - Microbiology: An Introduction 14th Edition
Tortora14th EditionMicrobiology: An IntroductionISBN: 9780138200398Not the one you use?Change textbook
Chapter 18, Problem 7

Use the following choices to answer questions 7–9.
a. Direct fluorescent antibody
b. Indirect fluorescent antibody
c. Rabies immune globulin
d. Killed rabies virus
e. None of the above
Treatment given to a person bitten by a rabid bat.

Verified step by step guidance
1
Step 1: Understand the context of the problem, which involves treatment after exposure to rabies, a viral infection transmitted by bites from infected animals such as bats.
Step 2: Recall that rabies post-exposure treatment typically involves both passive and active immunization to prevent the virus from progressing.
Step 3: Identify that passive immunization is provided by administering rabies immune globulin, which contains antibodies to neutralize the virus immediately.
Step 4: Recognize that active immunization is given by vaccination with killed rabies virus to stimulate the person's own immune response over time.
Step 5: Since the question asks specifically for treatment given to a person bitten by a rabid bat, the correct choice involves administering rabies immune globulin (passive immunization) along with the rabies vaccine (active immunization). Among the options, rabies immune globulin corresponds to choice 'c'.

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Key Concepts

Here are the essential concepts you must grasp in order to answer the question correctly.

Rabies Virus and Transmission

Rabies is a fatal viral infection transmitted through the saliva of infected animals, commonly via bites. Understanding the virus's mode of transmission, incubation period, and progression is crucial for timely and effective treatment to prevent the onset of symptoms.
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Post-Exposure Prophylaxis (PEP) for Rabies

PEP involves immediate wound cleaning, administration of rabies immune globulin (RIG) to provide passive immunity, and a series of rabies vaccinations to stimulate active immunity. This combined approach is essential to prevent rabies after potential exposure.
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Role of Rabies Immune Globulin and Vaccine

Rabies immune globulin (RIG) provides immediate antibodies to neutralize the virus at the wound site, while the killed rabies virus vaccine triggers the body's immune system to develop long-term protection. Both are critical components of effective rabies treatment after exposure.
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