How is rabies spread?

The rabies virus lives in the saliva (spit) and nervous tissues of infected animals and is spread when they bite or scratch. The virus may also be spread if saliva from an infected animal touches broken skin, open wounds, or the lining of the mouth, nose, or eyes. In caves crowded with many bats, it may be possible to inhale the virus floating on bat saliva in the air.

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1. What is rabies?
2. How is rabies spread?
3. What kinds of animals spread rabies?
4. How common is animal rabies in Massachusetts?
5. How can you tell if an animal is rabid?
6. What should you do if you think you’ve been exposed to rabies?
7. What is the treatment for people exposed to rabies?
8. How can you prevent rabies?
9. Where can you get more information?