The Rhabdoviruses are uniquely bullet-shaped. They contain a negative stranded RNA genome and are very stable to drying. 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.