CHATHAM CO., GA (WTOC) -
The Chatham County Health Dept. is urging residents to take precaution after a raccoon tested positive for rabies.
The raccoon was trapped after it got into a fight two domesticated cats on Burnside Island, according to the health dept. One of the cats had to be euthanized due to its injuries and the other cat has been quarantined.
It is also possible that a person was exposed to the raccoon. That person is undergoing post-exposure prophylaxis, according to the health department.
Rabies is a virus that's typically spread by infected animals and can be fatal.
Chatham County residents should avoid contact with wild or stray animals, watch for unusual behavior in pets and wildlife and get pets vaccinated against rabies, according to the health department.
Get medical care immediately if a person is bitten by an animal and contact Chatham County Animal Control at 912.525.2408 and the Chatham County Health Department at 912.356.2160.
Symptoms of rabies in animals include a change in behavior, biting, aggression, showing no fear of natural enemies (such as humans), foaming at the mouth, and paralysis.
Rabies protection tips from the Chatham County Health Dept.:
- Do not handle, feed or attract wild animals with open garbage cans or by leaving pet food out overnight.
- Never keep wild animals as pets or bring them into a home. Don't try to nurse sick animals to health. Call animal control or an animal rescue agency for assistance.
- Teach children never to handle unfamiliar animals, even if they appear friendly.
- Keep vaccinations up to date for all dogs, cats, and ferrets. It's the law.
Copyright 2012 WTOC. All rights reserved.
All content © Copyright 2000 - 2012 WorldNow and WTOC, a Raycom Media Station.
