Can people get exposed to rabies and not know it?

Yes, people can be exposed to rabies without immediate awareness, particularly if they are bitten or scratched by an infected animal without realizing it. The virus can take weeks to months to manifest symptoms, during which time the person might not know they have been exposed. Early symptoms are often vague and flu-like, which can lead to a delay in diagnosis. However, once symptoms appear, rabies is almost always fatal, making immediate post-exposure prophylaxis crucial if exposure is suspected.