Validated diagnostic tests that confirm the presence of rabies virus or a lyssavirus variant have been the foundation of rabies control strategies in many countries. Historically, histopathological techniques such as the Sellers Stain technique [1] were used to determine the presence of Negri bodies as rabies virus-specific antigen, however due to poor sensitivity and specificity this technique is no longer recommended by the World Health organization (WHO). The Fluorescent Antibody test (FAT) [2] relies on the ability of a detector molecule (usually fluorescein isothiocyanate) coupled with a rabies specific antibody forming a conjugate to bind to and allow the visualisation of rabies antigen using fluorescent microscopy techniques. Microscopic analysis of samples is the only direct method that allows for the identification of rabies virus-specific antigen in a short time and at a reduced cost, irrespective of geographical origin and status of the host. It has to be regarded as the first step in diagnostic procedures for all laboratories. Autolysed samples can, however, reduce the sensitivity and specificity of the FAT. The Rabies Tissue Culture Infection Test (RTCIT) [3] and the Mouse Inoculation Test (MIT) [4] are based on the propagation and isolation of the virus. These diagnostic tests are used to detect virus particles either directly in tissue samples (FAT) or indirectly in animals and in tissue culture (MIT and RTCIT, respectively). The rationale for the use of virus isolation (RTCIT/MIT) from a sample where there is a suspicion of infection with rabies virus is always recommended, especially when Koch's postulates are likely to be met. Such amplification of the viral pathogen facilitates additional molecular analysis to be undertaken, including sequencing of the viral isolate and subsequent phylogenetic analysis. Conventional diagnostic tests for rabies (FAT, RTCIT, MIT) are not labour intensive and rely upon low throughput. The FAT can be completed in less than two hours. In contrast, both the RTCIT and MIT require longer turnaround times (4-days and 28-days, respectively).