Cat and Raccoon with Rabies Expose Multiple Individuals in Alabama
A cat infected with rabies has exposed four members of a family in Russell County and 11 staff members at an Opelika veterinary hospital, according to a statement by the Alabama Department of Public Health. In a separate incident, a raccoon with rabies was also identified in Lee County. These incidents have prompted officials to emphasize the importance of vaccinations.
“Vaccinating your animals against rabies is the best way to keep your pets protected from the deadly virus,” said State Public Health Veterinarian Dr. Dee Jones. “Animal vaccinations also help protect people, who many times are exposed when the animal first becomes sick and before rabies can be confirmed, just as with this recent case in a cat.”
The cat that had rabies was a stray and had attacked the owner’s dog, exposing the individual at the time. The cat was subsequently taken to a veterinary hospital where it was quarantined and later died. The test results confirmed that it was positive for rabies. One person at the clinic was bitten and ten others were indirectly exposed. In total, 15 people received treatment at East Alabama Medical Center due to exposure.
Similarly, the rabid raccoon in Lee County exposed one person. Officials stated that raccoons are the most common carriers of the rabies virus found in domestic animals, especially in certain parts of Alabama such as Russell and Lee counties.
Under Alabama law, it is mandatory for all dogs, cats, and ferrets to be vaccinated against rabies at three months of age and annually thereafter, unless they receive a three-year rabies vaccine. The initial rabies vaccination is valid for only one year, regardless of the type of vaccine used.
To protect oneself and their pets against rabies, the Alabama Department of Public Health recommends the following precautions:
1. Do not allow pets to roam freely, confine them within a fenced-in area or use a leash.
2. Avoid leaving uneaten pet food or scraps near your residence.
3. Refrain from illegally feeding or keeping wildlife as pets.
4. Avoid approaching wild or domestic animals that are behaving strangely.
5. Caution children to stay away from any stray or wild animal, regardless of its behavior.
Dr. Homer Bruce, Lee County rabies officer, urges pet owners to check their pets’ rabies vaccination status and update it immediately if necessary. He also advises individuals to be vigilant of stray animals in their vicinity and to contact their local animal control agency for assistance. If unsure about a pet’s vaccination status, it is recommended to contact a veterinarian.
Ensuring the vaccination of pets is crucial in preventing the spread of rabies, which poses a significant health risk to both animals and humans. By following these guidelines and staying proactive, individuals can help protect themselves, their families, and their pets from this deadly virus.