What is Happening to Your Body?: Defining and Demystifying the Major Stages of Vampirism
By Bhavika N. Venkataraman DV
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There are four distinct stages of vampirism, the first one being death. In this stage, one’s body biologically dies for a period of time (1–2 weeks) while the pathogen causing vampirism hijacks the somatic cells for rapid reproduction. The nervous system is prioritized, leading to dramatic changes such as new and sharpened primal instincts and reflexes. This stage is ideal for treatment.
The process of rebirthing¹ can be a scary, and even detrimental one without guidance and preparation. Note that there is currently no recommended way to treat a rebirth at home, especially if the patient is alone. In the case that you or a loved one are in the early stages of vampirism, please call one of our specialists at 555 for a safe transportation to Requiem General Hospital. If you suspect that someone is in stage I, do not approach.
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To become a vampire, it is understood that you must die. Traditionally, death occurs through exsanguination² via fledgling.³ Fledglings are the most effective method of spreading vampirism, but hypothetically there are other methods of transmission, all of which involving bodily fluids.
In stage I, one is—for all intents and purposes—dead. During this time, the pathogen replaces the immune system and takes root in the somatic cells. The nervous system is most affected at this time as the human brain is rewired to enhance and rediscover primal instincts, and somatic reflexes are sharpened dramatically. In addition to typical reflexes, among others, a snapping reflex develops near the end of this stage, which makes the patient dangerous to be near even in death. It is suggested that a professional is called for transportation at this point.
Vampiric traits and determined in this stage. The pathogen rapidly mutates one's DNA, though it halts before using a lethal amount of energy. This causes traits to show up later.
While there is no cure for vampirism yet, this stage is ideal for treatment if rebirthing is unwanted. It is possible to resuscitate a patient in stage I once the progression of the pathogen has been stopped or reversed. This is typically done through silver therapy.
Stage I typically lasts around 7–14 days varying slightly depending on a patient’s size and immune response.
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1. Formally 'turning'. This is now an outdated term due to its negative connotations.
2. Death by blood loss. In this contexts, caused by overfeeding
3. Vampires in stages II or III of rebirth.
