When rabies virus enters the body, it travels along nerves to the spinal cord and up to the brain, producing inflammation. Symptoms of the disease generally develop about 10 days to 7 months after exposure. Symptoms in human beings. Among the first symptoms are pain, burning, or numbness at the site of the infection. The victim complains of headaches and is extremely restless.
Muscle spasms make the throat feel full, and swallowing becomes difficult.
Later, the patient may have convulsions. After a day or two, a quiet period can occur, which can progress to unconsciousness and, finally, death. Symptoms generally last from 2 to 12 days. Symptoms in animals. The development of rabies in animals follows the same pattern as in people.