Which of the following viruses causes acute central nervous system disease?

The rabies virus is well-known for causing acute central nervous system disease, characterized by severe neurological symptoms following an incubation period that can vary based on the location of the bite and the degree to which the virus has spread. Once the virus enters the central nervous system, it can cause encephalitis, which presents with symptoms such as confusion, agitation, paralysis, and usually culminates in coma and death if not treated.

Rabies specifically targets neurons and spreads along the nervous system. The hallmark progression of rabies, from initial flu-like symptoms to critical CNS involvement leading to severe outcomes, clearly illustrates why it is categorized as a virus that directly causes acute central nervous system diseases.

Other viruses listed, such as rubella and herpes simplex virus, have associations with neurological impacts but do not typically present with acute CNS disease in the same direct manner as rabies. The West Nile virus can also affect the CNS and may lead to encephalitis or meningitis, but rabies is more classic for its acute and fatal pathway associated with neurological symptoms. Thus, the primary focus on rabies underscores the urgency and severity associated with acute central nervous system infections.