Current knowledge on pathology and pathogenesis of rabies and its status in India

Rabies in India is an endemic malady and considered a serious concern for veterinary and medical fraternity alike. In spite of leading the world in reporting mortality due to rabies, it remains a neglected disease in India. No coordinated mechanism has yet been developed to assess the prevalence of rabies. Since dog is the main perpetuator of rabies in India, it needs a strategic focus for control on dog population that is not immune to rabies. Pathological alterations of rabies are characteristic though inconsistent and mild. The key areas of pathogenesis of rabies including intracellular replication and extra-cellular progression of rabies virus have been discussed.