Raccoon in Clay County tests positive for rabies

The Alabama Department of Public Health (ADPH) reports that a raccoon in the city of Ashland, Alabama, in Clay County, has tested positive for rabies.

A fox was found in the same area earlier this month. Authorities say that the two cases are probably related.

ADPH said in a statement that both animals have posed a significant risk to pets.

Samples have been taken from both animals, and additional testing is underway. The ADPH is working with the Clay County rabies officer to develop a vaccination strategy for the animals in the area. The plan will be announced soon.

There are two major strains of rabies: a raccoon strain and a bat strain. Both are found in Alabama.

Wildlife, especially raccoons, pose a risk of rabies to other animals and humans. The best protection is to keep your animal current on rabies vaccines.

ADPH is reminding pet owners to keep their animals up to date on rabies vaccines.

State Public Health Veterinarian Dr. Dee Jones said, “Vaccinating your animals against rabies is the best way to keep your pets protected from the deadly virus. Animal vaccinations also help protect people. People are often exposed when the animal first becomes sick and before rabies can be confirmed.”

Fifteen people in Russell and Lee County, as well as pets, were recently exposed to rabies by a rabid cat this summer.

A fox in Houston County tested positive for rabies in April.

A raccoon in Houston County tested positive for rabies in February.

Alabama law requires that all dogs, cats, and ferrets be vaccinated at three months of age and annually unless they receive a three-year rabies vaccine.

The first rabies vaccination is only good for one year, regardless of which vaccine a pet gets.

The best way to combat rabies is prevention:

·         Taking precautions with wildlife.

·         Make sure their pets are current on rabies vaccinations.

·         Always report any animal bite or other exposures to their medical provider and the ADPH.

·         Do not let pets run loose. Keep them in the house or in a pen or enclosure.

·         Do not leave uneaten pet food or scraps near your residence.

·         Do not illegally feed or keep wildlife as pets.

·         Do not go near wildlife or domestic animals that are acting in a strange or unusual manner.

·         Caution children not to go near any stray or wild animal, regardless of its behavior.

Rabies is fatal for humans and pets alike. There is no treatment.

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