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Rabies is a fatal viral
disease of the nervous system caused by a rhabdovirus which can
affect all mammals including humans.
The disease is usually spread by saliva from the bite of an
infected animal. Clinical signs include paralysis and aggression
leading to a painful death.
Classical rabies was eradicated from the UK in 1922 and the Pet
Travel Scheme and quarantine help protect against infected animals
entering the UK, but because of the existence of the disease
elsewhere there is concern about rabies being reintroduced by
illegally imported mammals. For information and advice about rabies
see the link to the DEFRA site below: - |