Rabies is an acute and deadly viral infection of the central nervous system. It attacks the brain and spinal cord.
Rabies effects wild and domestic animals.
Rabies is found in all of the United States, except Hawaii. About 18,000 Americans receive post-exposure treatment each year because of contact with animals suspected of being rabid. Human symptoms show after 30 - 90 days. Once symptoms appear, the victim usually dies. These animals must be vaccinated for rabies on an annual basis.