What is the outcome of untreated rabies in humans?

The outcome of untreated rabies in humans is usually fatal. Once symptoms appear, the disease progresses rapidly, leading to severe neurological impairment and eventually death, often within a matter of days to weeks. The virus attacks the central nervous system, and once clinical signs and symptoms develop, there is no effective treatment.

The fatal nature of rabies emphasizes the importance of timely post-exposure prophylaxis (PEP) after a potential rabies exposure, as this can prevent the virus from progressing to the symptomatic phase. The other outcomes presented are not accurate; complete recovery is not possible after symptoms appear, individuals do not become permanently immune to future infections once rabies has developed, and there is no expectation of total remission of symptoms once the disease has taken hold. The grave nature of untreated rabies solidifies the necessity for immediate medical intervention following exposure.