The rabies virus, also known as RABV, is the specific virus that causes the disease rabies.
Understanding Rabies and RABV
Rabies is a severe illness that affects the central nervous system. It is caused by an infection with the RABV virus. The primary ways people contract rabies include:
- Bites from infected animals: In the U.S., bat bites are the most common way people get rabies. In Africa and Asia, dog bites are the most frequent cause.
- Transmission through saliva: When an infected animal's saliva enters an open wound or the mucous membranes (like the eyes or mouth), the virus can be transmitted.
Symptoms of Rabies
Rabies symptoms can be highly varied and extremely dangerous. They may include:
- Seizures
- Hallucinations
- Paralysis
Rabies Prevention
Luckily, rabies is preventable if action is taken quickly. If you think you've been exposed to the virus, here are some immediate steps to take:
- Wash the wound: Thoroughly cleanse the affected area with soap and water.
- Seek medical attention: Visit a healthcare provider immediately for assessment and post-exposure prophylaxis (PEP), which usually involves the rabies vaccine and sometimes immunoglobulin.
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Cause | Infection with the RABV virus |
| Transmission | Through the saliva of infected animals (bites, open wounds, etc.) |
| Common Source (U.S.) | Bat bites |
| Common Source (Africa & Asia) | Dog bites |
| Symptoms | Seizures, hallucinations, paralysis |
| Prevention | Prompt washing of wound and post-exposure vaccination after exposure |
In summary, the RABV virus is the specific virus responsible for causing the disease rabies.
