This group of viruses has a broad host range but there is only one that affects humans. The viruses are generally introduced through a bite wound. Rhabdoviruses possess a lipid envelope displaying a surface glycoprotein. The RNA-binding nucleocapsid protein surrounds the RNA genome. Later, a full length positive RNA is transcribed and this is used to produce the full length negative strand RNA that is packaged into progeny.
Rhabdoviruses generally enter via a bite or a wound infected with saliva.
CNS damage produces the symptoms of disease. Infection of the thalamus, hypothalamus or pons may occur. Symptoms include fever, excitation, dilation of the pupils, excessive lacrimation, salivation, anxiety, hydrophobia due to spasms of the throat muscles and, eventually, death. Many factors come into play. Interferon, humoral factors and the cell-mediated response are all important.