**Core Concept**
Poliovirus is a highly infectious agent that spreads through two primary routes: hematogenous and neural. The hematogenous route involves the spread of the virus through the bloodstream, while the neural route involves the direct spread of the virus along the neural pathways.

**Why the Correct Answer is Right**
Poliovirus primarily enters the body through the gastrointestinal tract, where it replicates and multiplies. From there, it spreads through the bloodstream (hematogenous route) to various parts of the body. Simultaneously, it also travels up the anterior horn of the spinal cord and into the brainstem (neural route), leading to its characteristic paralytic symptoms. The virus's ability to spread through both routes makes it highly contagious and a significant public health concern.

**Why Each Wrong Option is Incorrect**
**Option A:** Rabies virus primarily spreads through the neural route, but it does not spread through the hematogenous route. Instead, it is transmitted through the saliva of infected animals and enters the body through a bite wound.

**Option B:** Varicella zoster virus spreads through the hematogenous route, but it primarily affects the skin and nervous system, causing chickenpox and shingles. It does not spread through the neural route in the same manner as poliovirus.

**Option D:** EB virus (Epstein-Barr virus) primarily spreads through saliva and other bodily fluids, and it is transmitted through close contact with an infected individual. While it can affect various parts of the body, it does not spread through both hematogenous and neural routes.

**Clinical Pearl / High-Yield Fact**
Poliovirus infection can lead to a range of symptoms, from mild gastrointestinal illness to severe paralytic poliomyelitis. The virus's ability to spread through both hematogenous and neural routes makes it a significant public health concern, particularly in areas with poor sanitation and hygiene.

**✓ Correct Answer: C. Poliovirus**