Dogs and rabies.

Abstract

Notes are given on the rabies virus (Lyssavirus), with reference to virus structure, replication, physical properties, and antigenic and genetic variation. Virus variants occurring in dogs, pathogenesis, transmission, susceptibility, incubation, CNS infection, peripheral organ involvement, and clinical symptoms are also discussed. Diagnosis and surveillance are considered and the epidemiology and distribution of dog rabies in different regions of the world are outlined. Rabies control methods include management of dog populations and prophylactic vaccination of dogs. The prevention of human rabies is also mentioned.