Rabies happens when a person or animal is infected with the rabies virus, which is usually transmitted through the saliva of an infected animal. This most commonly occurs by being bitten by a rabid animal, but can also occur if infected saliva enters an open wound or mucous membranes such as the eyes, mouth, or nose. The virus then travels from the entry site through peripheral nerves toward the central nervous system (brain and spinal cord), causing inflammation and neurological damage that leads to symptoms and ultimately death if untreated.

Animals that commonly transmit rabies include dogs, bats, raccoons, foxes, skunks, and livestock. After entering the nervous system, the virus multiplies and spreads to the brain, causing encephalitis. Early symptoms include fever and abnormal sensations at the bite site, progressing to more severe neurological symptoms such as confusion, hallucinations, paralysis, and coma. Rabies is almost always fatal once symptoms appear, but it can be prevented through prompt post-exposure vaccination.

In summary, rabies happens by:

• Entry of rabies virus through bite or saliva contact with wounds or mucous membranes,
• Virus traveling via nerves to the brain,
• Causing brain inflammation and neurological symptoms,
• Leading to death if not treated early with vaccination after exposure.