22 Questions
How does the rabies virus primarily gain access to the nervous system?
Through exposed peripheral nerve synapses in bite wounds
Which family does the infectious agent of rabies belong to?
Rhabdoviridae
What is the most common Lyssavirus infection in humans?
Rabies virus
What is the primary mode of rabies virus transmission?
Direct contact with infected animals
What specimens are required for definitive antemortem diagnosis of rabies?
Cerebrospinal fluid, saliva, serum, and skin biopsies from the nape of the neck
Why is rabies diagnosis often missed at the first clinical encounter in the United States?
The exposure history is often inaccurate or difficult to elicit
What can incorrectly suggest a diagnosis of rabies in the absence of an accurate history of prior IVIG administration?
Finding RLNAs in serum
Which organization is designated as the national rabies reference laboratory for the United States?
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)
What specimens can confirm the diagnosis of rabies in unvaccinated encephalitic patients?
Cerebrospinal fluid samples
Why is sequential sample collection indicated if initial testing for rabies is negative but clinical suspicion remains high?
To increase the likelihood of detecting virus and antibodies as the illness progresses
What is the main reservoir of rabies virus in many low- and middle-income countries?
Dogs
Which viral lineage is classified into canine and New World bat?
Rabies virus
What is the approximate range of rabies exposures in travelers per 100,000 travelers?
160–200
What characteristic symptom is associated with the neurologic phase of rabies?
Hydrophobia
In which phase of the disease does swallowing muscle spasm stimulated by water typically occur?
Neurologic phase
Which body part is often affected first in paralytic rabies?
Bitten extremity
Where have non–rabies lyssaviruses caused human deaths?
Australia
How is the rabies virus classified based on genetic differentiations and on the reservoir species in which they circulate?
Two major genetic lineages: canine and New World bat
What tissues can increase the risk for successful infection?
Highly innervated tissues
In what phase does pain and paresthesia at the site of exposure often occur?
Prodromal phase
Where has canine rabies been found to remain enzootic?
Africa
Which mammals are believed to be susceptible to rabies virus infection?
All mammals
Test your knowledge about the infectious agent rabies, including its causes, variants, impact on humans, and transmission methods. Learn more about this fatal encephalomyelitis and its widespread effects.
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