Rabies disease is caused by which pathogen, and which animals are commonly implicated?

• A. A bacteria contracted from soil.
• B. A fungus transmitted by air.
• C. A virus spread via saliva from bats, raccoons and foxes.
• D. A parasite transmitted by water.

Answer: (C)

Rabies is a viral disease caused by a Lyssavirus, a neurotropic RNA virus. It is transmitted mainly through the saliva of an infected animal, typically when a bite introduces the virus into a wound or mucous membrane. Because of this, certain wild animals serve as common reservoirs, with bats, raccoons, and foxes being well-known sources in many regions. The virus travels from the bite site into the nervous system, leading to fatal encephalitis if untreated after signs appear, which is why vaccination of pets and post-exposure prophylaxis after potential exposure are crucial. This fits best with a virus spread via saliva from bats, raccoons and foxes, rather than bacteria, a fungus, or a parasite transmitted by air or water.