Which of the following zoonotic viruses is known to affect the nervous system?

Rabies is a well-known zoonotic virus that significantly affects the nervous system. It belongs to the Lyssavirus genus and is transmitted through the saliva of infected animals, most commonly through bites. Once the virus enters the body, it travels along peripheral nerves to the central nervous system, where it can cause severe neurological symptoms. This includes encephalitis (inflammation of the brain) and can lead to paralysis, confusion, agitation, and ultimately death if left untreated.

The characteristics of rabies highlight its potential for causing serious impacts on the nervous system, making it a classic example of a zoonotic disease with significant neurological effects. The other options listed do not primarily target the nervous system, leading them to be less relevant in discussions of viruses that affect neurological function.