Rabies Virus
Rabies is caused by a virus that attacks the brain, causing severe inflammation (encephalopathy) and death if not treated. This virus is called the rabies virus. The rabies virus, which is an RNA virus, is part of the family of viruses called Rhabdoviruses. It appears that there are several variations of the rabies virus that are able to cause rabies. In nearly all cases of rabies, the virus enters the body through the saliva of an infected animal, usually by a bite, but it can also be transmitted if infected saliva gets into an open wound or splashes into mucous membranes such as those in the eyes, nose, or mouth. From the saliva's point of entry, the rabies virus travels along nerve cells to the brain. It multiplies there and moves to the salivary glands. In a rabid animal, the cycle is repeated when the animal bites a person or another animal. Although all species of mammals can become infected with the rabies virus, only a few species are best able to spread the virus to other animals. These species include, but are not limited to:
Only mammals get rabies. Birds, reptiles, amphibians, and fish do not get the disease. Incubation PeriodWhen an animal is infected with the rabiesvirus, the virus multiplies within the body until it results in symptoms. The period between infection and the onset of symptoms is known as the incubation period. The rabies incubation period may vary from a few days to several years, but typically lasts one to three months. When the rabies virus reaches the brain, it multiplies quickly and rabies symptoms begin. Rabid animals may be aggressive and vicious, or lethargic and weak. In people, early rabies symptoms of fever,headache, and fatigue are usually followed by confusion, agitation, hallucination, and paralysis. Once symptoms of rabies begin, the disease is almost always fatal. |
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