Most human-infecting viruses are maintained in the human population only. However, a zoonosis is a disease that is transmitted from other vertebrates to humans, at least sporadically, without requiring viral mutation. Which of the following is the best example of a zoonosis?
A) rabies
B) herpesvirus
C) smallpox
D) HIV
E) hepatitis virus

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Rabies is a zoonosis because it is transmitted from infected animals, such as dogs and bats, to humans through bites or scratches. The virus does not require mutation to infect humans and can be transmitted directly from animal to human. In contrast, herpesvirus, smallpox, HIV, and hepatitis viruses have human-only reservoirs and do not typically infect animals.

Most Human-Infecting Viruses Are Maintained in the Human Population Only