Which Virus Causes Hydrophobia?

rabies, also called hydrophobia or lyssa, acute, ordinarily fatal, viral disease of the central nervous system that is usually spread among domestic dogs and wild carnivorous animals by a bite. All warm-blooded animals, including humans, are susceptible to rabies infection.

What disease causes hydrophobia?

Hydrophobia is a clinical sign characteristic of human rabies. This sign occurs following paroxysmal contractions of pharynx responsible for hydrophobic spasms.

What causes hydrophobia in rabies?

Rabies used to be known as hydrophobia because it appears to cause a fear of water. Intense spasms in the throat are triggered when trying to swallow. Even the thought of swallowing water can cause spasms. This is where the fear comes from.