Which viral infection can result in symptoms such as aggression, excessive drooling, and paralysis in animals?

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Rabies is a viral infection known for its severe neurological effects on animals, which can manifest as aggressive behavior, excessive drooling, and paralysis. The rabies virus affects the central nervous system, leading to notable changes in behavior, including increased aggression, as seen in the "savage" or "mad" dogs that can be observed in the later stages of the disease. Excessive drooling, or foaming at the mouth, occurs due to paralysis of the throat muscles combined with difficulty swallowing. Ultimately, as the disease progresses, paralysis becomes more generalized, leading to a range of motor dysfunctions.

The other viral infections listed do not typically present with this particular combination of symptoms. Brucellosis is primarily a bacterial infection affecting reproductive systems and does not exhibit the same behavioral changes. Influenza primarily causes respiratory symptoms and general malaise rather than neurological signs. Canine distemper may present with some neurological symptoms, including seizures and twitching, but the specific combination of aggression, drooling, and paralysis is hallmark to rabies. This disease poses a significant risk to both animals and humans, underlining the importance of vaccination and prevention strategies in managing rabies exposure.

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