Dogs and cats and bats, oh my!

What do all of these have in common?

They may all potentially have rabies.

Halifax County has seen an increase in the number of reports of possible exposure to rabies.

Summer is usually when we see an increase because adults and children are more likely to be outside, along with animals that may be roaming the neighborhood.

Rabies exposure is a very serious illness, so it is very important that you be aware of the potential for rabies and the risks associated with wild and stray animals. Never try to pet a stray or injured animal.

If bitten or scratched, immediately wash the area with soap and clean running water for 15 minutes. You should visit your physician or emergency room for wound care and assessment of the need for antibiotics, tetanus vaccine, and/or further assessment for rabies vaccine.

Report the incident to the Animal Control Unit in your area as well as your local health department.

If the biting animal is surrendered to or captured by Animal Control, the bitten person may not have to immediately begin the rabies vaccine series. Bats are also an issue.

If you awaken to find a bat in your room, you should assume that you may have been bitten.

A bat’s teeth are so tiny and sharp that a bite may go unnoticed.

It is recommended to always err on the side of caution and go to your local hospital to begin the vaccine series. Testing of the bat will help further determine the need for the vaccine. Lastly, please be a responsible pet owner and keep your pet’s rabies vaccinations up to date. Vaccinated or unvaccinated pets exposed to proven rabid animals or wild animals unavailable for testing are considered exposed to rabies.

A properly vaccinated pet only needs to have a booster rabies vaccine within 5 days of exposure. Unvaccinated pets are required by state law to be immediately euthanized or quarantined for six months at the owner’s expense. For more information about rabies, contact Halifax County Public Health System Animal Control at 252-583-6651.

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Protect your family, pets, and be aware of stray or wild animals in your neighborhood because public health matters.