Rabies

Offering an account of rabies, this book gives a narrative about the disease and its etiologic agent, encompassing the historical background. It includes topics such as: A history of rabies from antiquity; Basic biology and molecular virology; Epidemiological aspects; Pathogenesis and pathology of the disease; and preventive measures in humans.

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Rabies offers a complete account of one of the oldest known diseases threatening public health today. Unlike most research-oriented descriptions of rabies, this book provides a narrative about the disease and its etiologic agent, encompassing the historical background to recent developments. The emphasis on the basic biology and molecular virology of the disease is intended to convey an understanding of the underlying mechanisms involved in the disease - essential information for diagnosis and prevention strategies. Current methods used in defining geographic origins and animal species of rabies viruses in wildlife are presented, along with diagnostic methods for identifying the strain of virus based on its genomic sequence and antigenic structure. The latest approved methods for controlling rabies in wildlife species are also covered. This account of rabies will interest clinicians, public health advisors, epidemiologists, research scientists, and anyone involved in diagnosing, treating, controlling, and preventing this disease.