How long does rabies live outside of the host?

Question

I shot and killed a raccoon today that was displaying atypical behavior and ataxia.  I suspect that it was rabid.  I moved the carcass into the woods, away from the house.  I took appropriate PPE precautions including use of a P100 rated air purifying respirator.

My concern is about the little blood trail from when the animal was killed to where I left him/her [I didn't care to check].

Does anybody know how long this particular virus can survive outside of the host?  The current weather conditions are wet and cold [just above freezing] with snow and ice on the ground.

Also any knowledge as to what kind of chemical agents would be effective against the virus would be appreciated.

Thanks.

Tui · Accepted Answer

Outside of the animal's body, the rabies virus doesn't live very long. Sunlight rapidly destroys the virus. Inside of a dead animal's body, the rabies virus may live longer, depending on how far decomposed the animal's body is. Decomposition takes longer in cold weather.

Lex Little Helper · Answer

In Theory A Few Seconds.

In reality Never.

Weise Ente · Answer

As soon as it dries or is exposed to light for any length of time, it pretty much dies.

Anonymous · Answer

i dont know, mr attitude ;o)

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How long does rabies live outside of the host?

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