Is rabies caused by virus or by bacteria? How is it transmitted? Which organs and tissues are affected by the disease? How is it prevented and treated?
Rabies, also known as hydrophobia, is a viral disease. It is found in dogs, cats, bats and other wild mammals. The transmission to humans occurs through the saliva of contaminated animals, mainly through bites. The rabies virus is neurotropic and attacks the central nervous system in a fast and lethal fashion. The prevention of the disease is done by prophylactic vaccination of animals and humans. The treatment is done by anti-rabies serum containing specific antibodies against the virus.
