Written by the Fiveable Content Team • Last updated September 2025
Written by the Fiveable Content Team • Last updated September 2025
Definition
Rabies is a viral disease that causes acute inflammation of the brain in humans and other mammals. It is typically transmitted through the bite of an infected animal.
5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test
Rabies is caused by the Rabies lyssavirus.
The virus travels from the bite site to the central nervous system via peripheral nerves.
Symptoms include fever, headache, excess salivation, muscle spasms, paralysis, and mental confusion.
Once clinical symptoms appear, rabies is almost always fatal.
Vaccination after exposure (known as post-exposure prophylaxis) can prevent disease onset.