Rabies is a viral disease that is included in the A82 group of conditions. It is caused by the Rabies virus, transmitted primarily through the bite of a rabid animal most commonly a dog. It can infect all mammals, including humans, and is widespread across the globe. Upon entering the body, the virus progresses along the peripheral nerves towards the brain leading to severe neurological symptoms. Early signs of rabies in humans can include fever, general malaise, and a tingling sensation or discomfort around the site of the animal bite. As the disease advances, symptoms tend to get severe and may include irrational behavior, difficulty swallowing, paralysis, and eventually death. The disease primarily affects the central nervous system, causing inflammation of the brain and spinal cord. Rabies is nearly always fatal once symptoms appear.
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