Texas Animal Control Officer Practice Test

What are the two types of rabies?

1. Acute and chronic rabies

2. Furious and paralytic rabies

3. Active and passive rabies

4. Neurotic and phobic rabies

The correct answer is: Furious and paralytic rabies

The correct identification of the two types of rabies as furious and paralytic rabies is grounded in the clinical manifestations observed in infected animals and humans. Furious rabies is characterized by typical symptoms including agitation, confusion, aggression, and hyperactivity. Animals in this category may exhibit erratic behavior, and these neurological symptoms are a result of the virus affecting the brain, leading to increased excitation. This is the form that people often associate with rabid animals due to its more dramatic presentation. Paralytic rabies, on the other hand, often presents with a more subdued and progressive loss of muscle control. It begins with weakness and paralysis, which can lead to coma and eventual death. The gradual progression of symptoms in this form can make it less noticeable initially but equally dangerous, as it severely impacts the nervous system. By distinguishing between these two types, animal control officers can better understand the behaviors and risks associated with rabies and how it manifests in various species, which is crucial in managing rabies exposure and performing effective public health interventions.