[Rabies].

Abstract

Rabies is a fatal encephalitis caused by the rabies virus. Japan is currently free of endemic rabies; the last domestically acquired human case of rabies infection was reported in 1956. Four rabies cases have been reported in Japan since then, all of which were imported infections. The clinical forms of rabies include furious and paralytic rabies, with the former being more common. No effective antiviral drugs are available against the rabies virus, and management is limited to symptomatic treatment. Post-exposure prophylaxis is critical in cases of suspected rabies virus infection. Vaccination is recommended for travelers in rabies-endemic areas.