What Is Rabies?
2. Causes
Rabies is caused by a type of virus known as the rabies lyssavirus. The virus is typically found in the saliva of infected animals, including people. The virus is spread from one animal to another when contaminated saliva comes into contact with an open wound. This can happen through bites or just by an infected animal licking an open wound.
It can also be transmitted when an infected animal is consumed by another. A small percentage of cases have occurred from transplants involving infected organs. The rabies virus can be carried and transited by any mammal. These include pets and other domesticated animals as well as wild animals.
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