Worried About Rabies?

Rabies is a fatal but preventable viral disease.
The virus is found in the saliva of infected animals and is transmitted primarily through a bite; however, the virus can also be transmitted if saliva or brain tissue enters open wounds, eyes, nose, or mouth.
In the United States, rabies is mostly found in wild animals like bats, raccoons, skunks and foxes, but any mammal can contract rabies. Only mammals can be infected with and spread rabies; birds, fish, reptiles and amphibians cannot.
In Kanawha County, we have had animals test positive for rabies, but it is rare. We do see a variety of cases of rabies across the state.
The rabies virus affects the central nervous system, so if a person does not receive the appropriate medical care after a potential rabies exposure, the virus can cause disease in the brain, ultimately resulting in death.

Do not panic, but do not ignore the bite either. Wash the wound thoroughly with soap and lots of water.

Seek medical advice immediately, if you believe you may have been exposed to rabies.
Report the bite to the Kanawha-Charleston Humane Association (304-342-1576). To reach the humane officer, select 5 in the menu.
If you need to have a dead animal tested for rabies, the Office of Laboratory Services only accepts small animals (bats) or the heads of large animals (raccoons, skunks, dogs, cats). For accurate test results, care must be taken not to damage the animal’s head.
If the animal is wild, do not try to pick it up. Try to safely capture or restrain it without further risk of exposure. Be sure to wear gloves.
If the animal is domestic, be sure to get the owner’s information.
If the animal is a stray, take note of any identifiable coloring or markings before it runs away.
Do not let anyone destroy wild animals at random just because there may be a rabies case in your area. Only a few wild animals may be carrying rabies.

Wear gloves to examine or wash your pet.
If you must kill the attacking animal to stop the attack, be careful not to damage its head. The brain will be needed to test for rabies.
If your pet has bitten someone, tell the person bitten to seek medical attention immediately. Provide proof of your pet's rabies vaccination.
Report the bite to the Kanawha-Charleston Humane Association (304-342-1576). To reach the humane officer, select 5 in the menu.
Do not let your pet stray, and do not give your pet away. It must be available for quarantine or observation.
Do not kill your pet or allow it to be killed unless you have been instructed to do so by public health authorities.

Keep your pet's vaccinations up to date. In West Virginia, a vaccine is required on a regular schedule for all domesticated pets and must be administered by a licensed veterinarian.
Respect the law: It is illegal to own wild animals.
If you see a wild animal acting strangely, report it to the West Virginia Department of Natural Resources (304-822-3551). Do not go near it yourself.
Pets should not be allowed to roam. Limit the possibility of exposure by keeping your animals on your property or on a leash.
Do not leave garbage or pet food outside, as it may attract wild or stray animals.
Rescued strays should be taken to a vet immediately. We have so many good-hearted animal lovers in our county, but you have to remember that you cannot help animals if you contract a disease and become gravely ill. Be careful.
There is a rabies vaccine for humans, too. Call our Clinic to discuss costs and availability, 304-348-8080.
Remember... wild animals cannot be kept as pets. Enjoy their beauty from a safe distance, even if they seem friendly. Sick animals sometimes seem tame.