Associate Safety Professional Practice Exam

What is a common mode of transmission for rabies?

1. Inhalation of contaminated dust

2. Bite from an infected animal

3. Tick bites

4. Exposure to contaminated water

The correct answer is: Bite from an infected animal

Rabies is primarily transmitted through a bite from an infected animal. This mode of transmission occurs because the rabies virus is present in the saliva of infected animals, and when they bite another animal or human, the virus can enter the bloodstream and begin to affect the nervous system. Animals like bats, raccoons, skunks, and foxes are common carriers of the virus, and they can transmit rabies through their bites. Inhalation of contaminated dust, tick bites, and exposure to contaminated water are not recognized transmission routes for rabies. The rabies virus does not survive well outside of a host animal, making respiratory transmission unlikely. Ticks are vectors for other illnesses but not for rabies. Contaminated water also does not serve as a transmission route for this virus, as it primarily spreads through direct contact with the saliva of an infected animal. Understanding the specific ways rabies is transmitted is crucial for prevention and treatment efforts.